places to visit near tower of london

Attractions Near Tower Of London

Places to visit near tower of london.

Dating back over 900 years, the Tower of London stands as one of London's most iconic landmarks with significant historical background. However, the area surrounding the Tower is equally as impressive, with plenty of places to visit near Tower of London to explore. One of the most popular attractions near Tower of London is Tower Bridge. This stunning bridge, built in the late 19th century, offers breathtaking views of the Thames and the Tower itself. Visitors can walk across the bridge and even visit its exhibition, which tells the story of its construction and history. Another nearby attraction is the Monument to the Great Fire of London. This 202-foot-tall column commemorates the devastating fire that ravaged the city in 1666 and offers stunning views of London's skyline from its viewing platform.

Tower Bridge is an iconic symbol of London, spanning across the River Thames and connecting the north and south of the city and one of the best attractions near Tower of London. Completed in 1894, it features two impressive towers and a walkway for pedestrians to cross. The bridge's unique design allows it to lift its central section to allow larger ships to pass through. Visitors can explore the bridge's history and engineering through its exhibitions, including the Victorian Engine Rooms that once powered the bridge lifts. The bridge also offers stunning views of the city and the nearby Tower of London. For anyone visiting London, Tower Bridge is an essential sight to behold.

St Paul's Cathedral is one of London's most iconic places to visit near Tower of London and a masterpiece of English architecture. Built between 1675 and 1710, it is widely considered to be the masterpiece of Sir Christopher Wren, who designed the cathedral following the Great Fire of London. The cathedral's impressive dome, which dominates the London skyline, is one of the largest in the world and offers spectacular views of the city from its Golden Gallery. Visitors can also explore the cathedral's rich history and learn about its role in the city's spiritual and cultural life through guided tours and interactive exhibits. St. Paul's Cathedral is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in London's architectural heritage and cultural history.

Located just a short walk from the Tower of London, The London Dungeon is an interactive attraction that brings to life some of the city's most gruesome and fascinating historical events. Visitors can experience live shows, special effects, and interactive exhibits that cover over 1,000 years of history. The London Dungeon is a unique and thrilling experience that's perfect for anyone interested in history and entertainment.

Located near the London Eye, Shrek's Adventure! London is an immersive experience that takes visitors on a journey through the world of Shrek and his friends. Visitors can enjoy live shows, interactive exhibits, and meet some of their favorite characters from the movies. Shrek's Adventure! London is a fun and family-friendly attraction that's perfect for fans of the Shrek franchise and considerd as one of the best attractions near Tower of London.

Situated on the South Bank of the River Thames, the London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Visitors can board one of the 32 capsules and enjoy a 30-minute ride that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. The London Eye is a must-visit attraction that offers a unique perspective on London.

The Museum of London is a fascinating museum that tells the story of London's history from prehistoric times to the present day. Located in the heart of the city, the museum's extensive collections include over a million objects, ranging from ancient Roman artifacts to modern-day street art and one of the best places to visit near Tower of London. Visitors can explore the city's past through interactive exhibits, immersive displays, and multimedia installations. From the Great Fire of London to the Blitz, the museum provides a unique insight into the city's rich cultural heritage and its role in shaping the world we live in today. The Museum of London is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of this vibrant and dynamic city.

The Monument to the Great Fire of London is a towering stone column located near the northern end of London Bridge. Constructed from 1671 to 1677, this monument was erected in memory of the Great Fire of London which ravaged and devastated much of the city in 1666. The monument stands 202 feet tall and features a viewing platform at the top that can be accessed by climbing up a narrow spiral staircase of 311 steps. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top. The monument is a fascinating piece of London's history and a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the city's past.

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Whitechapel Gallery is a contemporary art museum located in the East End of London. Founded in 1901, it has a long and distinguished history of showcasing emerging and established artists. The gallery has a reputation for innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions, and its permanent collection includes works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th century, including Picasso, Pollock, and Rothko. The gallery also hosts talks, workshops, and film screenings that aim to engage the public in critical debates around contemporary art. Whitechapel Gallery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in contemporary art and culture in London and considerd one of the best attractions near Tower of London

Situated on the South Bank of the River Thames, the Tate Modern is a world-renowned art museum that features a wide range of contemporary and modern art. Visitors can enjoy works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. The Tate Modern is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in art and culture.

How long does it take to explore the Tower Bridge Exhibition?

The Tower Bridge Exhibition typically takes around 1-2 hours to explore fully. Visitors can learn about the history of the bridge and its engineering, walk across the high-level walkways for stunning views, and even see the Victorian engine rooms that used to power the bridge lifts.

Are there any free attractions to visit near the Tower of London?

Yes, there are several free attractions near Tower of London, including the Monument to the Great Fire of London, Leadenhall Market, and the Southwark Cathedral. Visitors can also walk along the Thames Path and enjoy the views of the river and the city.

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What can visitors see at the Whitechapel Gallery?

The Whitechapel Gallery is a contemporary art gallery that showcases both established and emerging artists. Visitors can see a range of art exhibitions, attend talks and events, and even participate in workshops and classes.

What kind of art can I expect to see at the Tate Modern?

The Tate Modern features a wide range of contemporary and modern art from around the world. Visitors can expect to see works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. The museum also features temporary exhibitions that showcase emerging artists and new forms of contemporary art.

Is Shrek's Adventure! London suitable for all ages?

Shrek's Adventure! London is a family-friendly attraction that's suitable for all ages. The experience is designed to be entertaining and interactive, with live shows and meet-and-greets with favorite characters from the Shrek franchise. However, some of the exhibits may be too scary for very young children.

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Tower of London

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Things to Do near Tower of London

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Things to do near the Tower of London - nearby attractions

Top things to do near the tower of london.

Discover the historic and vibrant attractions that surround the Tower of London. Situated in the heart of London, this iconic landmark is not only an impressive sight itself but also the gateway to a plethora of fascinating experiences. In this guide, we'll delve into the top attractions near the Tower of London that you won't want to miss.

Must-See attractions near the Tower of London

The London Dungeon

The London Dungeon is a thrilling attraction that will take you back to the capital's most scary past.

• Distance from the Tower of London: 3.7 km
• Find on Map .

AKA the Millennium Wheel is a massive observation wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames in London.

• Distance from the Tower of London: 0.8 km
• Find on Map

Shrek's Adventure! London

DreamWorks inspired Shrek's Adventure! London is an indoor walk-and-ride attraction that is the perfect family attraction.

• Distance from the Tower of London:  0.7 km

SEA Life London Aquarium

Among Europe's largest aquariums, it houses a vast collection of global marine life, making it a must-visit in the UK and Europe.

• Distance from the Tower of London:  0.6 km

Houses of Parliament

Serves as the seat for the British Parliament, housing both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

• Distance from Tower of London:  1.5 km

Tate Modern

Showcases Britain's modern art scene, offering an enriching experience for art enthusiasts.

• Distance from the Tower of London:  2.3 km

HMS Belfast

A museum ship operated by the Imperial War Museum, permanently docked on the River Thames in London.

• Distance from the Tower of London:  1.2 km

A striking combined bascule and suspension bridge crossing the River Thames near the Tower of London.

• Distance from the Tower of London:  0.2 km

Practical information: navigating your visit

Getting there

• By Tube : Access the Tower via the District and Circle lines from Tower Hill station, right by the entrance, offering direct access to the Tower and nearby attractions.
• By Bus : Reach the Tower easily with various bus routes like 15, 42, 78, 100, and RV1, providing scenic rides through central London.
• By Car : Parking facilities are nearby, but due to potential congestion, it's recommended to check availability beforehand or consider public transport for convenience.

Operating hours

Attractions near the Tower of London have different opening hours. Tower Bridge is usually open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, while The Shard offers extended visiting hours. The Globe Theatre and HMS Belfast have their specific schedules; check their websites for details.

Tickets can be bought online or onsite. Look for combo ticket options for multiple attractions and possible discounts for seniors, students, and families.

Book Your Tickets Now!

Tips and recommendations.

• To optimize your experience, consider planning your visit during off-peak hours, typically in the early morning or late afternoon, to avoid crowds. For panoramic views of London's skyline, aim for sunset or sunrise visits at Tower Bridge or The Monument.
• Dining options around these attractions vary widely, from quaint cafes to elegant restaurants, providing a range of cuisines to suit every taste. St. Katharine Docks offers a picturesque setting for a relaxed meal by the water.
• If you're interested in exploring multiple attractions, it's a good idea to allot enough time for each visit to fully appreciate what they have to offer. Checking the weather forecast before your visit might help plan the best times for outdoor activities or enjoying the scenic views.
• While tickets can often be purchased on-site, booking in advance, particularly during peak seasons, can ensure a hassle-free experience and possibly offer skip-the-line benefits, allowing you to make the most of your time exploring these fascinating attractions.

Frequently asked questions about attractions near the Tower of London

The best time to visit the Tower of London is during the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the picturesque sunrise or sunset views. It's less crowded during these hours.

Yes, some attractions offer combined tickets, allowing you to visit multiple sites in the vicinity at a discounted rate.

Absolutely! The HMS Belfast and the Globe Theatre offer family-friendly experiences with interactive displays, kid-friendly tours, and live performances suitable for all ages.

While you can often purchase tickets on-site, it's advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your visit and potentially save time with skip-the-line options.

The Tower of London is a historic castle that has been used as a royal palace, a prison, and an execution site. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction that is home to the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, and the Bloody Tower. Visitors can also explore the Tower's walls and gardens, and learn about its fascinating history.

Yes, there are some restrictions on what you can bring into the Tower of London. Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are not permitted. You are also not allowed to bring food or drink into the Tower, except for water in a sealed bottle.

Yes, the Tower of London is accessible to visitors with disabilities. There are ramps and lifts throughout the Tower, and there are also accessible toilets.

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Things to Do Near Tower of London

What is a huge mistake that people planning to visit London make? Not planning things to do near the Tower of London!

When I was a guest on the Eye on Travel CBS Radio Show with Peter Greenberg last year, I said that I feel the Tower of London is the top attraction that people should see when visiting London.

According to Visit Britain, the most visited paid for attraction in London in 2022 was the Tower of London. It attracted 2 million visitors, up 284% on 2021.

Given that statistic, you can see why I suggest the Tower of London first for everyone visiting London. However, if you know the Tower of London’s history, you might think the better question is: How many guests left the Tower of London with their heads last year?

Ha!Ha!Ha! You knew I couldn’t resist a corny touristy joke, right?

But, seriously, when I get emails or comments on the Sunny News YouTube channel from people visiting London for the first time, they always express wanting to visit the Tower of London. For what it’s worth, I have visited it three times. The Sky Garden is the only attraction I have visited as many times. Is it shocking to learn that it is just around the corner from The Tower? Well, more like a 5-7 minute walk. But, that is close enough in my opinion.

So, what else can you do if you know you want visit the Tower of London?

Things to Do Near Tower of London: YouTube

To watch my suggestions, you can tune in to this Sunny News video. In it I outline what I feel makes a great one day itinerary. All activities in the video take place North of the River Thames.

Things to Do Near Tower of London: London Pass

If you are considering several attractions in one day, then it is likely that you will want a London Pass . Below is the a list of attractions you could use if for that are things to do near Tower of London.

• St Paul’s Cathedral (£23)
• The Tower of London (£33.60)
• Tower Bridge Exhibition (£12.30)
• View from the Shard (£37)

If you paid for an adult ticket each of these individual attractions “at the door”, your total would be £105.90. An adult London Pass for one day is £85.

The itinerary above would be tight, but if you want to max out on your time in London, it could be accomplished. It is different from what I suggest in the video because it focuses on just London Pass attractions.

Things to Do Near Tower of London: For Foodies

If you’re like Mr Sunny and me, you don’t like to run ragged when you are on holiday. We enjoy leisurely lunches with adult beverages when we travel. As you will see on my Instastories , we don’t overload ourselves with too many commitments on any given day.

Activities that would interest foodies that are near the Tower of London include:

• Walking to St Katherine’s Docks and having lunch at Dickens Inn or one of the many restaurants in the area. White Mulberries is a great spot for coffee and pastries. Their Instagram is a London account I love and have followed for years.
• You can easily walk to Borough Market, which is open everyday except Sunday. On weekends, you can get to Maltby Street in about 20 minutes by crossing the Tower Bridge. Both of these locations are known for their outstanding street food.
• There are tons of restaurants on both the north and south sides of the River Thames. They offer fab views too.
• The Secret Food Tour of London Bridge is a 3-3 1/2 guided food tour of the London Bridge area that incorporates 7 stops.

Things to Do Near Tower of London: Historic

For those that want to devour history instead, you can find things to do near the Tower of London too. You’ll want to add the Monument to the Great Fire of London which is shown in the video.

You could also add a visit to the London Dungeon for an entertaining look at London’s dark past. On the way over, you can also visit the HMS Belfast. Or you can swap something for time’s sake on that itinerary and add the London Bridge experience. The London Bridge and the HMS Belfast are on the London Pass.

Things to Do Near Tower of London: St Paul’s Cathedral

When my mother visited in April, her top requests in London were the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral. Arriving at the first one close to when they opened, gave us enough time to swing by the SkyGarden before walking to St Paul’s Cathedral. I had previously booked a time for us to visit Skygarden, which is something you must do for this free attraction. In fact, like the Tower of London it’s one of the few attractions that Londoners actually visit.

We spent about 2 1/2 hours at the Tower of London and about 90 minutes at St Paul’s Cathedral. Our day of touring ended around 3pm.

Things to Do Near Tower of London: Final Thoughts

You wouldn’t think that those three attractions would take up most of a day. However, you must build in time to get from one attraction to another. And, like I mentioned previously, I don’t like to rush through a million activities in one day.

For the closest amount of attractions in one condensed place, you want to read this article on How to See 4 Attractions at London South Bank .

How do you like to travel, Sunny friends? Do you like to buy a discount attraction pass and hit as many activities as you can in one day? Do you prefer to alternate relaxation days with attraction days?

For More Guides to London:

I have bookmarked many of my best guides to London for you and grouped them below. They should make planning a trip to London so much easier! To stay up to date with all that’s happening in London, subscribe to the Sunny News emails too.

• Best Things to Do in London
• Food Things do Do in London
• Major Differences in American and British Cultures
• Trips- International Travel Tips and Tricks

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Tower of London

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Things to Do near Tower of London

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• Tower of London: Entry Ticket, Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour
• Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London
• Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise
• Jack the Ripper Tour with 'Ripper-Vision' in London
• Ghost, Ghouls and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride
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• Discover over 1,000 restaurants near Tower of London
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THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Tower of London

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Things to Do near Tower of London

Trusted reviews and ratings, free 24-hour cancellation, low-price guarantee.

• Tower of London: Entry Ticket, Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour
• Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London
• Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise
• Jack the Ripper Tour with 'Ripper-Vision' in London
• Ghost, Ghouls and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride
• (0.28 km) Rotunda Bar & Lounge
• (0.76 km) Moonshine Saloon
• (1.21 km) Be At One Spitalfields
• (0.40 km) Balls Brothers
• (0.50 km) Prosecco House
• Discover over 1,000 restaurants near Tower of London
• Discover over 1,000 hotels near Tower of London

Places To Visit Near Tower Of London

About places to visit near tower of london.

There are plenty of places to visit near Tower of London that will impress you with their beauty and rich history. Discover the rich heritage of London at the house of parliament, one of the most iconic government attractions near the Tower of London. If you like marine life then hop in the SEA Life Aquarium and admire over 400 species of wild marine life, verdant corals and impressive sharks in large glass tanks. If you are not a sea person, head straight to another one of the most splendid places to visit near Tower of London, The London Eye. This gigantic 135 meter big ferris wheel, with 32 observation capsules looks over the entire scenic London cityscape along with the serene River Thames.

After the skyview, enjoy a peaceful evening walk at the Tower Bridge, one of the finest attractions near Tower of London and admire an ethereal view of the London city like never before. Explore the city from underneath the glamorous surface by visiting London Dungeon which counts as one of the best places to visit near Tower of London and is definitely not made for the faint hearted. This walk in attraction brings you eye to eye with the scariest urban legends of London.

If you want to admire the escalating beauty of the London cityscape, then head onto the London Eye, one of the best places to visit near Tower of London. This marvelous ferris wheel consists of 32 observation capsules that look over the entire bewitching cityscape of London. You can book the pods for a private session and enjoy a relaxing time while admiring the view before you. What makes this attraction one of the most iconic places to visit near Tower of London is its serene height that goes upto 135 meter making it one of the largest ferris wheels across the globe as well. It is approximately 2.3 miles away from the Tower of London.

The Tower Bridge definitely makes its way in the list of the best places to visit near Tower of London. The Tower of bridge standing on the River Thames, is one of the most soulful landmarks across London. This Victorian period bridge gives you a panoramic view of the entire cityscape on one side, and the beautiful stretch of the Thames river on the other. Lucky visitors might also catch the bridge lift which is done on purpose to let large water vessels pass by. It is approximately 1 mile away from the Tower of London.

The London Dungeon is one of the finest places to visit near Tower of London. The bewitching attraction is definitely not for the fainthearted. The dungeon recreates historic and gothic characters, and represents them in a scary yet lively way. As you walk in through this attraction you will come across some of the most feared characters of London like Jack the ripper, Fleet Street barber and Sweeney Todd. Discover the truth about the horrifying torture chamber and have an exclusive time inside the mystifying and dark surrounding of the dungeons. The dungeon is definitely one of the best places to visit near Tower of London, which is approx. 2.2 miles away from the tower.

The Sea Life London aquarium is one of the greatest ways to admire the verdant and beautiful wildlife around us. The aquarium is among the largest of its kind and definitely makes its way in the list of the finest places to visit near Tower of London. The attraction consists of various theme zones, with over 400 marine animals in vast tanks. Admire the baby sharks floating above your head and immerse yourself in the magical beauty of the verdant coral lives as well. The aquarium is incredibly famous for conducting shark walks, educational talks and interactive zones making it one of the most iconic and best places to visit near Tower of London. It is approximately 2.9 miles away from the Tower of London.

If you have kids accompanying you on your London expedition, this amusement park is one of the best places to visit near Tower of London. The museum consists of the magic bus depot which is a 3D attraction that your toddlers can enjoy. Another splendid attraction is the swamp, which is a fascinating walk in through attraction narrating the story of many disney characters by Shrek cartoon characters. This amusement park is one of the finest places to visit near Tower of London and will definitely make you come back for more. It is approximately 2.9 miles away from the Tower of London.

If you want to immerse yourself in the iconic history of London, the House of Parliament definitely counts as one of the best places to visit near Tower of London. Perched on the Northern stretch of River Thames, this government building is beautiful, baroque style architecture, and serves as the meeting ground for the House of Commons and House of Lords. This landmark is also called the Palace of Westminster and plays a vital role in decision making of England's government and politics. Visit this beautiful structure, and admire its marvelous interiors while learning about its awe-inspiring history. It is approximately 2.7 miles away from the Tower of London.

Also Checkout: IFS Cloud Cable Car Tickets

For art lovers, the Tate Modern is a splendid and fabulous museum consisting of art and paintings dating back to a century. This museum is definitely one of the most extraordinary places to visit near Tower of London. The museum consists of awe-inspiring art pieces of infamous artists like Pablo Picasso, Emily Kame Kngwarreye, and Jenny Holzer. Visit Natalie Bell and discover how artists come up with new and exquisite ideas and visit the Blavatnik building to discover incredible revelations about underground tanks. This museum hosts exhibitions every month, bringing in the awe-inspiring artworks of a plethora of global artists which will definitely leave you mesmerized with their beauty. It is approximately 1.6 miles away from the Tower of London.

The HMS Belfast is an iconic warship and has been the major point of battle during World War II times and Korean war. Standing now on the River Thames, this iconic navy ship will definitely give you insights into the world war climes of the past. Discover the story of the shots that were fired on the D-day on this navy ship, which goes down in history as one of the most significant moves during the world war. It is approximately 1.9 miles away from the Tower of London.

Tower Of London Tickets

Marvel at the dazzling Crown Jewels, an awe-inspiring display of regal opulence and centuries of storied heritage

Step inside St John's Chapel, the oldest church in London, and feel the weight of history envelop you as you stand within its ancient walls

Explore the multifaceted history of the Tower, from its role as a royal residence to a mint, menagerie, armory, and even an observatory

Book your Tower of London tickets and learn about the captivating tales of intrigue, imprisonment, and torture as you stroll through the attraction

• All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of booking, and also upon arrival.
• Wheelchairs are available free of charge on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• There are lifts available at the White Tower near the Raven shop and the New Armouries Café.
• Please keep in mind that the Tower has difficult stairs and passageways where wheelchair access may be restricted.
• There is no baggage storage facility, so travel light.
• Smoking, eating, and drinking within all buildings are not allowed.
• Guide and assistance dogs are allowed.
• Tripods, selfie-sticks, and other photographic or recording equipment are not allowed.
• Please be aware that parts of the Tower may seem frightening/scary to young kids

Know More About Tower Of London

How long should I spend in the Tower Of London?

The Tower of London is one of the most visited structures in London and with a history dating back to 1000 years, the tower has splendid architecture, a private zoo, white towers, a zone used for execution in the past, prisons and treasure vaults, all of which you need to discover in your tour. Therefore a tour of approx. 2 hours is required to cover this beautiful 18 acre stretch of iconic landmark.

Why is the Tower Of London famous?

The Tower of London, built by William the Conqueror, to guard London from foreign invaders was a place of residence for the royal aristocrats. This UNESCO heritage site is about 1000 year old and has incredible renaissance and baroque style architecture making it one of the most visited tourist attractions across London. This palace houses white tower and line of kings, displaying real king armor, a treasure vault housing real crown and jewelry, a ruthless prison used for execution of prisoners of war in the past and royal mint housing rare exhibits.

Also Read: Stonehenge History

What is the best time to visit London?

The best time to visit London is during the summers. During this time you can visit all popular attractions and also escape the otherwise cold and wet weather of England. The summers in London are usually a pleasant and beautiful time to visit this European paradise.

Do we need to book in advance for London Eye tickets?

You can book a London Eye ticket in advance to enjoy exclusive discounts and offers. You can also book a private pod session to spend some quality time with your family with drinks and food. However you can also book at the London eye ticket counter at your arrival time.

How old is Tower Bridge?

The Tower Bridge is about 1000 years old, making it one of the most significant landmark of the history of London.

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Ten Things To Do Near Tower Bridge

London Guide: Ten Things To Do Near Tower Bridge . If you find yourself near Tower Bridge, check this list to see if you’ve explored all the best places. Go inside the bridge for amazing views across London, explore the Tower of London, St Katharine Docks, Shad Thames and Butler’s Wharf. My Ten Things To Do Near Tower Bridge List includes plenty of places to eat so you’re in for a treat!

Tower Bridge

Ten Things To Do Near Tower Bridge List

10 Things To Do Near Tower Bridge List

1. Walk over Tower Bridge 2. See inside Tower Bridge 3. Visit the Tower of London 4. Relax at St Katharine Docks 5. Stroll through Shad Thames 6. Dine at Butler’s Wharf 7. Eat at One Tower Bridge 8. Investigate London Bridge City 9. Sit down in Potter’s Fields Park 10. Explore Tower Bridge Road shops

Ten Things To Do Near Tower Bridge Details

Tower Bridge: This beautiful bridge was built in 1886-1894. It spans the River Thames which takes you very close to the Tower of London. If you stand on the bridge you get a fantastic view of all the major buildings in London – Tower of London, The City of London, Canary Wharf, City Hall and The Shard.

View From Tower Bridge

Inside Tower Bridge: You can actually go inside Tower Bridge and walk across a glass floor where you can see the traffic below. The views are spectacular which gives you a much better view of the prominent London architecture. Find out more about the people who constructed the bridge and investigate the Victorian Engine Rooms. Read my article Amazing London Views From Inside Tower Bridge .

Tower of London: This magnificent building is Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress. The Tower of London lies on the north bank of River Thames which is close to Tower Hill station. It was founded towards the end of 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest of England. If you buy a ticket you can admire the Crown Jewels, White Tower, Bloody Tower, prisons, Fusilier Museum and meet the famous Beefeaters. To find out about the opening times and ticket prices go to the Tower of London Website .

Tower of London

St Katharine Docks: On the same side of the river as the Tower of London you can find a luxury central London marina with restaurants and apartments. It’s hidden away behind buildings but is well worth checking out because it is pretty and peaceful. Read my article, St Katharine Docks Waterside Dining to find out more about the restaurants.

Shad Thames: When you cross the bridge to the south side and turn left you will be in an area called Shad Thames. This is a historic street called Shad Thames and the surrounding area is also known by this name (and Butler’s Wharf). This location has an abundance of 19th-century warehouses that are now restaurants, apartments and offices. Originally the warehouses housed tea, coffee and spices. Today, the area is named after these commodities, Cayenne Court, being an example. Look up and you will see walkways crossing the sky from one building to the next. Sir Terrance Conran was instrumental in redeveloping this area.

Shad Thames

Butler’s Wharf: In the Shad Thames vicinity is a historic warehouse, previously a chocolate biscuit factory and then a tea warehouse called Butler’s Wharf. It is now luxury flats and home to famous restaurants, The Chop House and Pont de la Tour. These restaurants have alfresco seating overlooking the Thames. Keep an eye out for Butler’s Wharf Pier.

Butler’s Wharf

One Tower Bridge: If you turn right on the south side of Tower Bridge you will see a new collection of buildings which is known as One Tower Bridge. Here you will find the Bridge theatre, restaurants such as The Ivy plus luxury apartments.

One Tower Bridge Apartments and Restaurants

London Bridge City: In between Tower Bridge and London Bridge you will find an area called London Bridge City. This takes you along the river banks past City Hall (the Mayor of London’s office), The Scoop (outside concert area), HMS Belfast (Warship) and Hay’s Galleria (covered restaurants and shopping area).

Potter’s Fields Park: I love this small park which gives you somewhere green to sit. They have some lovely planting which is glorious during the summer months.

Potter’s Fields Park

Tower Bridge Road shops: If you walk down Tower Bridge Road you will eventually find a collection of independent shops which are worth exploring. Kas and Ros sell stunning jewellery. Bespoke and Bound is a leather bookbinding specialist making albums, notebooks and more. Machine is a bike shop which also does bike repairs and sells coffee plus snacks. M Manze is a famous old-fashioned pie, eel and mash shop which has been in existence since 1902.

More Than Ten Things To Do Near Tower Bridge

If you want to explore more, you should also read my Ten Tings To Do In London Bridge article. This tells you about London Bridge, Borough Market, Southwark Cathedral, The Operating Theatre Museum and other interesting things to do. Read my Ten Things To Do In Bermondsey Southwark article as well. I hope you have a wonderful adventure!

Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London.

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Visiting the Tower of London: 10 Top Attractions

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London is not only the most important set of buildings in Britain, it's the most visited of the city's many tourist attractions .

In its long history - parts of it are over 1,000 years old - this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site has played many roles. It has served as a stronghold (many times besieged, never taken), as well as a royal palace; a prison and place of execution; a royal mint and treasure vault; an observatory; and for five centuries, a private zoo.

Built by William the Conqueror to protect London and to keep an eye on the city's citizens, as well as boat traffic on the River Thames, the original Tower - the White Tower - was built about 1078. Covering some 18 acres, the tower complex today consists of the Outer Ward, surrounded by a wall with six towers and two bastions, and the Inner Ward , with its 13 towers.

The tower was long a place of confinement. Among its many prisoners were King David II of Scotland, Princess Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth I), Sir Walter Raleigh, and William Penn.

Many famous people were also executed or murdered within its walls, including Henry VI, as well as two of Henry VIII's wives. The last executions carried out in the tower took place during WWII, when a number of spies were shot here. It's no wonder that ghosts are reputed to haunt its ramparts and dungeons!

To learn more about what is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in all of England, be sure to read our list of the top attractions at the Tower of London.

See also: Where to Stay near the Tower of London

1. The White Tower and the Line of Kings

2. the jewel house: home of the crown jewels, 3. the royal mint, 4. the medieval palace, 5. the bloody tower, 6. the other towers, 7. chapel royal of st. peter ad vincula, 8. tower green, 9. the beefeaters and the ceremony of the keys, 10. the royal regiment of fusiliers museum, where to stay near the tower of london, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to the tower of london.

Set in the center of the Inner Ward , the White Tower - named for the white stone it was built from - was begun in 1078 and completed around 1100. Four stories tall, with walls up to 15 feet thick, the structure has small cupolas on the corner turrets. These were added in the 17th century, and the exterior was later restored by Christopher Wren .

A highlight is Line of Kings with its remarkable displays of royal armor. Acknowledged as the world's oldest tourist attraction - it was established in 1652 - this collection of weaponry includes hunting and sporting weapons from medieval times to the end of the 19th century, arms and armor used in tournaments, as well as some that belonged to Henry VIII.

Look inside St. John's Chapel , a well-preserved example of Norman church architecture dating from 1080.

The Jewel House has been home to the Crown Jewels since 1968. This unique collection includes St. Edward's Crown, made of pure gold and still used in the crowning of British sovereigns, as well as the Imperial State Crown. Set with more than 2,800 diamonds and other precious stones, it was made for the coronation of Queen Victoria in 1837. It's still worn at the state opening of parliament and on other special occasions.

Other interesting items include the Golden Anointing Bowl and Spoon, the only relics of the original regalia to survive the Civil War.

The Royal Mint - located here from 1279 to 1812 - is the focus of the excellent Coins and Kings exhibit. Portraying the lives of the workers and the stories behind the coins they minted, the exhibit is on the site of the original mint and includes interactive displays and rare objects from the Royal Mint Museum .

With its re-creations of the quarters used by England's kings and queens during their frequent visits, the Medieval Palace was constructed by Henry III and his son Edward I while expanding the tower's defenses, and is famous for its opulence.

Prime examples include the remarkable St. Thomas's Tower Fireplace, Edward I's Bedchamber, the Chantry, and the Lanthorn Tower with its collection of rare objects dating back to the 13th century.

It was in the aptly named Bloody Tower that many of the darkest of the tower's secrets were kept - and some of the country's dirtiest deeds done. Among its famous prisoners was Sir Walter Raleigh , whose cell remains as it was during his three imprisonments here (including one 13-year stretch).

The tower received its name after the "Princes in the Tower," Edward and Richard, were murdered by their uncle King Richard III .

One of the finest looking of the site's many towers, Middle Tower was built in the reign of Edward I (1307). It was once accessible only by two drawbridges. Above its main gate is an often-pictured stone carving of the royal coat of arms.

Beyond Middle Tower stands Byward Tower, containing guard rooms and the machinery for the portcullis, which can still be seen in the upper rooms. In the Bell Tower , built by Richard I in 1190, you'll find Princess Elizabeth's Walk, the rampart leading to Beauchamp Tower on which the future Queen Elizabeth I strolled during her imprisonment here.

Though they're free to wander the grounds of the Tower of London, it's at the massive Wakefield Tower where the famous r avens are kept. If you're lucky, you might even catch a Beefeater feeding one of the seven ravens who call the attraction home.

The Tower of London was also once famous for its Royal Menagerie. A fascinating exhibition about these royal beasts is located in the Brick Tower .

The Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula takes its name from the day it was consecrated, the festival of St. Peter in Chains . Built around 1100, it was altered in the 13th century, rebuilt after a fire in 1512, and renovated and restored several times since.

It's also notable as the place where many of those executed in the tower or on Tower Hill are buried, including two of Henry VIII's executed wives. Sunday services include Holy Communion at 9:15am and Matins, which is sung at 11am.

Many of the Tower of London's executions took place on Tower Green, now marked by a moving memorial on the site of the execution block where condemned prisoners were beheaded. Execution inside the tower, away from the crowds, was a privilege reserved for those of high rank or for those who had strong popular support.

The best-known of those executed on or near the site are the three Queens of England: Anne Boleyn , second wife of Henry VIII; Catherine Howard , Henry's fifth wife; and Lady Jane Grey who was just 16. Anne Boleyn was executed by the clean stroke of an expert swordsman specially imported from France, while another victim, Margaret Pole, was less lucky - a blundering executioner hacked her head and shoulders to pieces.

On one side of Tower Green sits Queen's House , an attractive half-timbered Tudor house in which Anne Boleyn spent her last days before execution. It was also where the trial of Guy Fawkes took place.

With the full title of The Yeomen Warders of Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London, and Members of the Sovereign's Body Guard of the Yeoman Guard Extraordinary, it's no wonder they are best known by their nickname, Beefeaters.

Mostly ceremonial today, these Yeomen Warders, dressed in their distinctive uniforms, guard the tower and act as guides. They are all retired, senior non-commissioned officers who served with distinction.

Among their duties is the ceremonial closing of the gates each evening. Known as the Ceremony of the Keys, this 700-year-old tradition sees the Chief Warder present the keys of the tower to the Resident Governor .

Special passes are required to view the ceremony and must be obtained in advance in writing (a stamped addressed envelope is required and two dates you could attend). The ceremony begins nightly at 9:40pm.

This excellent museum portrays the history of the famous Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, formed in 1685 by King James II from within the ranks of the Tower of London Garrison. The regiment's first Commanding Officer was given the title Constable of the Tower (a position that lives on to this day), with his men barracked in the Waterloo Block.

The museum is housed in what were once the Officers' Quarters , a building that houses the Regimental Headquarters and Officers' Mess, and which is still used on ceremonial occasions. Highlights include a collection of 12 Victoria Crosses, King George V's uniform (he was former Colonel-in-Chief of the Regiment), and relics from the Napoleonic Wars.

We recommend these stylish hotels a short hop from the Tower of London:

• South Place Hotel : Boasting five-star luxury, warm hospitality, and mood lighting, South Place Hotel features spacious bathrooms in its chic rooms. A Michelin-starred restaurant is located on-site.
• Apex London Wall Hotel : This 4-star hotel offers guests welcome gifts, stylish decor, and classy Elemis toiletries.
• Hotel Indigo London Tower Hill : A great mid-range hotel, Hotel Indigo features four-poster beds, brick walls in guest rooms, and complimentary mini-bars.
• hub by Premier Inn Spitalfields, Brick Lane : This popular budget hotel offers great-value and is eco-friendly. Guests appreciate its crisp-white decor and complimentary tea and coffee.
• Tours and Tickets: Because this is the city's most popular attraction, ticket lines are inevitably long and slow. You can skip the line and get priority entrance with a Tower of London Entrance Ticket Including Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour . The lively tours conducted daily (every 30 minutes) by the Tower's Yeoman Warders offer the scoop on everything from Henry VIII's wives to executions and ceremonies. The last tour is 2:30pm (winter), 3:30pm (summer), and they are included with the price of admission.
• Closures: Parts of the tower are often used for ceremonies and events, including the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula. To ensure closures don't affect your visit, check here in advance of your trip.
• Timing: Allow at least three hours to see everything. Try to avoid busy times such as school holidays, when line-ups can be long.
• Getting to the Tower of London: Bus routes 15, 42, 78, 100, and RV1, as well as the District and Circle lines of the Tube (Tower Hill Station) all serve Tower Hill. Riverboats for Tower Pier depart from Charing Cross, Greenwich, and Westminster; Thames Clippers' catamarans depart every 20 minutes from London Bridge Pier and Tower Pier.

Address: Tower Hill, London

Official site: www.hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon

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Visiting the Tower of London (FAQs + best tickets & tours)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2023

If you’re planning on visiting the Tower of London, then this article is for you! 

In this post we cover everything you need to know so you can plan the perfect visit, including why you must go, ticket and tour options, frequently asked questions and the passes you can purchase that include entrance to Tower of London.  

If you want to know about opening times for the Tower of London, what there is to see and how to get to the London Tower, stay right here for the full lowdown. 

Tower of London – Tickets & Tours Quick Picks

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Whether as part of a group or on a more independent basis, taking a London Tower tour is a must for just about anyone visiting the capital of England. 

The Tower of London history is a rich, varied and very royal one. Visitors to the Tower can see the crown jewels in all their noble glory, as well as the uniformed guards who protect them. 

You can also explore structures like the Bloody Tower, the Medieval Palace and the Norman style White Tower. 

During your visit you can also explore the Fusilier Museum, enjoy a hands-on armoury experience, see the armour of past Kings and learn lots of Tower of London facts about the tower’s ravens and how the site was used in the past for torture, execution and imprisonment.

Admission to the Tower of London opens the door to a fun-filled day packed with fascinating historical insights. Everything about the place is so quintessentially British that it really would be a crime to miss it off your list.

Visiting the Tower of London FAQs

So what are the Tower of London visiting hours – when can you go? Times actually vary according to the season, so it’s best to check the latest details here . 

At the time of writing, the cost of visiting the Tower of London varies according to when you go, your age and if you’re eligible for any concessions. 

You can buy two types of family ticket to the Tower of London, and kids under five go free. 

Booking the best Tower of London tours allows you to make the most of your day there, so you can spend your time wisely and learn from knowledgeable and enthusiastic history experts. 

A guided tour of the Tower of London costs extra, but this can be from just a few more pounds if you opt for an audio tour . 

Those wondering how to go to the Tower of London have several options, including the London Underground , mainline train and river or uber boat. 

The closest tube station is Tower Hill on the Circle and District lines. It’s also possible to walk from London Bridge station in 10-15 minutes, Liverpool Street in 20 or Charing Cross in 25. 

Transport for London’s journey planner can be accessed here .

Entry to the Tower of London can be quicker and easier during weekdays. Whichever day you go, arrive during the early morning if you can. 

The crowds will generally get smaller after about 3 pm on weekdays, but as the Tower sometimes closes as early as 4.30 pm this would leave you with very little time to see all the sights.  

Historic Royal Palaces, who operate Tower of London tickets and entry, are committed to accessibility. 

The Tower is, however, a historic building containing features like steep staircases, narrow passageways, low doorways and cobblestones. This does limit wheelchair access. 

Outdoor areas are open, and all registered disabled persons may bring a carer free of charge. Proof will be required to obtain this complimentary ticket. 

The most obvious place to see nearby is Tower Bridge. If you can, the walk from here to visit London Bridge is worthwhile – plus it’s free and you can get some fresh air by the river. 

There are some interesting sights to look out for along the way, such as the Shard, the city skyscrapers, Butler’s Wharf, HMS Belfast and St Katharine Docks.

Other London attractions that aren’t too far from the Tower include Borough Market and the Golden Hinde galleon, both of which are near London Bridge station. You could also cross the river to wander around the Tate Modern or to see Shakespeare’s Globe theatre. 

Or head west instead of east from Tower Bridge, looking out for iconic landmarks like the OXO tower, Westminster and the London Eye as you stroll along the riverbank. 

How to visit the Tower of London – Best Tours and Tickets for the Tower of London 

There are various options open to you when it comes to purchasing Tower of London tickets, and each has its plus points. 

Factors to bear in mind include what is included, such as free cancellation, skipping the queue or a guided tour. Also how is the ticket delivered – will it be available as a download on your smartphone or printed on paper? 

These are the main options when you want to buy Tower of London tickets.

You can of course buy tickets from the official Tower of London website. 

You can book your tickets and see what there is to do while you’re there all in one place.

Tickets purchased via the site can only be amended or cancelled six weeks in advance. 

At the time of writing, standard adult ticket prices cost from £28.90 when booked directly.

You can buy tickets via Historic Royal Palaces here .  

Cancellations and amendments are permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you also get to skip the queue when buying via Get Your Guide. 

You may also need to visit the official Tower of London site for further information. 

Standard adult ticket prices also cost from £28.90 when booked via Get Your Guide – but unlike tickets purchased from the official site, these can be cancelled up to a day before if required. 

Due to the flexibility of this ticket – and the fact that you won’t need to wait in line – we recommend buying them, at no extra cost, from Get Your Guide here . 

Guided tours include extras as well as expert guidance. You can witness the opening ceremony,  tour the Tower with a Beefeater, take a two-hour private tour or gain exclusive early entry to the Crown Jewels.  

These options do cost more than a stand-alone entry ticket. 

The cost varies according to the option selected: click the links below for more info. 

• Buy the Tower of London small group Beefeater tour here
• Buy the Tower of London opening ceremony and early access tour here
• Buy the Tower of London two-hour private guided tour here
• Buy the Tower of London opening ceremony, early access and guided tour here ( read our review of this tour )

Multi-venue tours are ideal for those with limited time in London, as you can pack more into a day than you otherwise would. These packages can also be good value for money. 

One day tour even includes visits to Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace as well as the Tower of London, and even includes a cruise on the Thames. 

You’ll have less time to spend at the Tower of London. 

Each tour is priced differently. To find out more, you can click the links below. 

>Buy the Tower of London and Tower Bridge tour here

>Buy the Tower of London and Westminster walking tour here

>Buy the Tower of London, Changing of the Guard and Westminster tour here

>Buy the Tower of London full day London sightseeing tour with river cruise here

You can also buy London Tower admission as part of a multi-ticket such as the London Pass or the Go City London Pass. 

This is delivered as a smartphone app , and can save money compared to buying separate tickets. You have 60 days to use it and can pick where to visit as you go. 

You’ll have to buy at least 2 credits, and it may end up costing you more if you don’t use them all. 

Prices start at £34 for an adult 2 choice pass, and go up to £118 for a 7 credit pass. 

Find out more about the London pass in our complete review here or the Go City London Explorer here .

We hope these visiting the Tower of London tips, tricks and ticket options have helped you plan your trip. 

The Tower of London is one of those UK sights that you really cannot miss, and for most people, the memories will last a lifetime. Happy travels!

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Visiting the Tower of London 2024: Everything You Need to Know!

Last updated: April 13, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 6 Comments

If you’re visiting London, we think that a visit to the Tower of London should definitely be high on your list of things to do in the city. This is home to one of the oldest intact buildings in London, and has seen a huge amount of history. We’ve visited multiple times, and always have a great day out here.

There’s a lot to see and do at the Tower of London, from seeing the Crown Jewels to learning the legend of the ravens. In this guide to visiting the Tower of London (officially known as Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London), I’m going to tell you everything you need to know to plan your visit.

This will include everything from saving money on your Tower of London tickets, to what to see and do, and more tips for your visit. I’ll also share some tips for where to stay near the Tower of London. Let’s get started.

An Overview of the Tower of London

Before we get into the details, you might be wondering what the Tower of London is, and why it warrants a visit. Let me answer that question with some quick history.

In 1066 William the Conqueror invaded Britain, bringing an end to centuries of Anglo-Saxon rule. The monarchy that William started shaped much of the England you see today, right up to and including the current monarch.

Of course, invading and conquering a country is one thing. Keeping it under your rule once you’ve done that is another. With this in mind, William the Conqueror, now William the First, set about building castles to keep control of his new lands. In fact, from 1066 through to 1087, he built nearly 700 castles across England and Wales.

With London as his capital city, naturally an impressive castle had to be built here to demonstrate his absolute power. And so it was in 1066 that construction on the Tower of London commenced. Initially the building was a simple timber structure, but a more impressive stone structure was built in the early 1080s. This was built over pre-existing Roman fortifications that were part of Roman city wall.

This was the White Tower, an imposing stone fortress which still survives today as the centrepiece of the Tower of London.

Over the centuries various changes and additions were made to the Tower of London. These included extra fortifications and structures, including thick walls, defensive towers, and buildings for accommodation, holding prisoners and munition storage.

Today, the Tower of London consists of a series of defensive structures, walls and buildings which span an area of 12 acres. First there is the moat, then there is a defensive wall, the outer ward, another defensive wall, the inner ward and finally the innermost ward where you find the White Tower.

The Tower of London has been the location of many key events in British history. Multiple important figures throughout history were executed here, with 112 people executed at the Tower over 400 years. These included some of Henry VIII’s wives, political and religious prisoners, and even German spies during World War II.

Today the Tower of London is primarily a visitor attraction, a role it has played for around 400 years. It also serves some notable functions, including being the home of the Crown Jewels and the regimental headquarters of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site, and also a home for around 40 retired service personnel and their families.

As you can imagine with a building that spans so much history, we’ve only briefly covered the Tower of London in this overview, but hopefully this gives you enough to get an idea as to why to visit!

Where is the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is found on the north bank of the River Thames, right next to Tower Bridge. The address is London, EC3N 4AB. It sits right on the edge of the London borough of Tower Hamlets, next to the City of London.

The Tower of London entrance is on the west side of the building, with the ticket and security check lines forming outside the west gate. This area is also where you’ll find the ticket shop, welcome centre and shop.

How to get to the Tower of London

There are multiple options for getting to the Tower of London, including by rail, underground, bus and even boat! Here are the main options you have.

• Tube . The nearest tube station to the Tower of London is Tower Hill, which is served by the District and Circle lines. This is around a five minute walk from the Tower of London. Other nearby stations (within 15 minutes walk) include Aldgate, Aldgate East, Tower Gateway, Monument, Bank, London Bridge and Fenchurch Street.
• Public bus . Bus services 15, 42, 78, 100 and RV1 all stop near the Tower of London.
• Boat.  The Thames River Boat service stops at Tower Pier, and offers connections up and down the river. A day pass for the Thames River Boat is included on the London Pass , which also includes Tower of London admission.
• Train . The nearest train station for the Tower of London is London Bridge Station, around 15 minutes walk away. Liverpool Street Station is around 20 minutes walk away.
• Taxi . You can of course get a taxi to the Tower of London, which prices varying depending on the distance travelled.
• Hop on Hop off Bus . All the London sightseeing buses make a stop at the Tower of London. A sightseeing bus tour ticket is also included on the London Pass .
• Walking . Depending on where you are traveling from, you might find it easiest to walk to the Tower of London. For example, it’s 20 minutes’ walk from St. Pauls Cathedral and the Shard, 45 minutes from Covent Garden or an hour from Westminster Abbey.

For more tips on travel in London, see our guide to getting around London .

Tower of London Opening Times

The Tower of London normally opens between 9am and 10am, and closes between 4.30pm and 5.30pm. These times vary depending on the time of year. They can also change for school holidays. Normal opening times are as follows:

Summer (1st March – 31st October)

• Sunday – Monday: 10am – 5.30pm
• Tuesday – Saturday: 9am – 5.30pm

Winter (1st November – 28th February)

• Sunday – Monday: 10am – 4.30pm
• Tuesday – Saturday: 9am – 4.30pm.

Last admission is usually between 1 hour and ninety minutes before closing, however we would recommend giving yourself at least 2 or three hours for a visit.

Note that opening times can vary, so you will always want to check current opening times here in advance of your visit.

Do You Need a Ticket for the Tower of London?

You definitely need a ticket for the Tower of London. You can either book your tickets online in advance of your visit (recommended), or you can buy tickets from the ticket office which is near the main entrance.

We highly recommend booking tickets in advance. At busier times, there can be queues for the ticket office, so you will lose valuable sightseeing time standing in line.

How Much does it Cost to Visit the Tower of London?

As of April 2024, ticket prices for the Tower of London are as follows:

• Adult – £34.80
• Child (age 5-15) – £17.40
• Concession (age 65+, 16-17, full time student, disabled visitors) – £27.70
• Child under 5 years – Free

Pricing can vary, we recommend you check the latest information here .

What Does the Tower of London Ticket Include?

The Tower of London ticket includes:

• Entry to the Crown Jewels, the White Tower and the Chapel of St Peter
• Entry to the Battlements, the Medieval Palace, the Bloody Tower, the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, the Fusiliers Museum, the Beauchamp Tower, and the Royal Mint Exhibition
• A tour of the Tower of London with a Yeoman Warder, or “Beefeater”. These run every hour starting near the main entrance, pre-booking is not required. The first tour is usually at 10am and the final tour is at 2.30pm.

The ticket does not include an audio guide, but an audio guide can be purchased separately for £5 for adults and £4 for children. You can either purchase these with your ticket or on-site. Audio guides can be collected just after you pass through the security check, to the right of the entrance.

Premium Tower of London Experiences

As well as the standard visit to the Tower of London, you can also book special experiences. These usually cost more, but will give you a unique experience. These might include witnessing special ceremonies, or simply getting in before the majority of the crowds. Some examples include:

• This early access tour of the Tower of London with a Beefeater which has you visiting prior to general admission
• This Tour of the Tower of London includes early access to the Tower and Crown Jewels. You’ll also get to see the opening ceremony, and have a fully guided experience inside the Tower of London. It also includes a hop-on hop-off city cruise tour, which departs right outside the Tower.
• One of the most unique experiences at the Tower of London is the Ceremony of the Keys. This is held every night from 9.30pm until 10.05pm, and tickets must be purchased separately. These are very popular, and ca be booked on the official website here . Note that photography is not permitted, and this ticket does not include admission to the Tower of London beyond the Key Ceremony itself.
• If you want to see the evening Ceremony of the Keys and also take a quick tour of the Tower, check out this tour . It includes an hour’s tour with a Yeoman Warder as well as the opportunity to watch the Ceremony of the Keys. I have done this tour and I enjoyed it. However you should be aware it is quite a quick tour and you don’t see inside the White Tower or visit the Crown Jewels. So for a more complete experience I would probably recommend this morning tour .

Where to Buy Tower of London Tickets

There are a number of options for buying Tower of London tickets. The main options you have are:

• On-site in person at the Tower of London ticket office
• On the GetYourGuide website here
• On the Tiqets website here (includes our exclusive discount)
• Online on the official website here

We definitely recommend checking prices between the official site and third party sites as sometimes there are discounts as well as bundles that may include other attractions you are interested in.

Usually, our link to the Tiqets website will get you the best prices on adult admission, but offers and availability do vary so do shop around and compare!

It’s also worth mentioning that the refund policy varies by ticket. Tickets bought on the official site generally cannot generally be refunded, whilst third-party sites may have a different policy.

The Tower of London is also included on a number of London city passes, see that section of the post for more details on that.

Discount Tower of London Tickets

There are a few ways to get discounted Tower of London tickets, or at least, to save on your admission.

Normally, using our Tiqets link will save you a little on full admission price for an adult.

If you are travelling as a family, the Family Saver ticket can save you money. This is available on either the official site here or the Tiqets website here . If visiting during peak times with two adults and three children, you can save over £20 compared to buying the normal full price tickets.

Tower Hamlets residents can visit the Tower of London for just £1. These tickets can only be purchased in person on the day, and residents must provide proof of residence in the form of either an Idea Store card or a Tower Hamlets library card, as well as proof of address.

Finally, don’t forget to check out city passes which include the Tower of London. If you are planning on visiting a few attractions in London, these can quickly save you money.

City Passes that Include the Tower of London

One of the best ways to save money on sightseeing in a city in our experience is to use a city pass. These passes usually include entry to a range of attractions for one price. If you are already planning to visit a number of high value attractions in a city like London, then a city pass can usually save you quite a bit of money.

We normally use the London Pass when we’re in London sightseeing, and have used it to visit the Tower of London a number of times. You can read our full review of the London Pass here , and buy one for yourself here . Of course, there are other city passes which include the Tower of London. Here are the main options to consider. Which one is best for you will depend on your sightseeing itinerary.

• The London Pass – access to over 80 attractions across London for a specific set of days
• The GoCity London Explorer Pass – choose from between 2 and 7 attractions to visit
• The London Sightseeing Pass – access to over 55 attractions across London for a specific set of days
• The London City Card – access to the Tower of London and the London Eye , as well as an audio guide of London and a hop on hop off boat cruise
• The London Big City Saver Pass – includes access to the Tower of London as well as your choice of attractions including the London Eye, Madame Tussauds

We normally use the London Pass as we think it offers the best value, but of course it will depend on what you plan to see.

Tower of London Tickets Sold Out? You still have options to visit the Tower of London!

If you are visiting the Tower of London when they are operating timed entry slots, these do have a maximum number of visitors they can accommodate. As such, tickets can sell out.

If you are looking on one of the online ticket portals, including the official site, then you should also check alternatives just in case. Whilst most of them draw from the same allocation, you might get lucky. We recommend checking  the official website here , on the GetYourGuide website here and o n the Tiqets website here .

If you have no luck, the next option is to book a tour which includes Tower of London entry. Group tour tickets normally have a pre-allocated amount of tickets which are separate from the standard ticket pool. We list tours in our suggested tour options, but some options to consider include:

• This Tour of the Tower of London which includes early access to the Tower and Crown Jewels. You’ll also get to see the opening ceremony, and have a fully guided experience inside the Tower of London
• This full day tour of London includes many of the highlights of London, and finishes with a guided tour of the Tower of London

Hopefully between these options you’ll be able to visit the Tower of London during your time in the city.

Can you skip the lines at the Tower of London?

There are two main lines at the Tower of London.

The first of these is the ticket line for buying tickets in person on the day. This one is easy to skip by buying your tickets online in advance, which we highly recommend you do. Most tickets or tours which advertise skip the line privileges are referring to this ticket line.

If you are visiting with a London Pass or other city sightseeing pass, you can normally also skip the ticket line and head straight for the entry line. Just read the instructions provided with the pass.

The second line is the entry line which features a security check. All guests have to go through the security check, so this line can’t be skipped. Our advice is to visit the Tower of London as close to opening time as possible so the line isn’t so long.

The only way to ensure faster access is to book one of the early entry tours, which get you in before the main ticket line opens. While you will still have to go through security, it will only be you and the other members of your group doing this, so it will move quickly. Check out this tour and this tour for examples of early access tours.

What to see and do at the Tower of London

There is a lot to see and do at the Tower of London! We recommend visiting the Crown Jewels (located in a section of the Waterloo Barracks) first and then visiting the White Tower as these are generally the two busiest and most popular attractions here. After that, we just recommend visiting the rest of the attractions in the order that makes the most sense for you.

I should also note that due to the historic nature of the Tower of London some exhibit or area is almost always closed at any one time due to renovations, construction, or safety issues. However, it is rarely the most popular areas.

For example on one of our recent visits the Tower’s Mint and the chapel were closed to visitors, and on another the Beauchamp Tower and a section of the battlements was closed. So if there is any specific exhibit or areas you really want to visit, you may want to call ahead to ensure it is open.

Here’s an overview of the main sights and attractions within the walls.

The Tower’s Mint

When you enter the Tower of London you’ll pass through the Middle Gate, go across the moat, and then pass through the outer wall via the Byward Tower. You’ll now be in the outer ward, which sits between the two main sets of walls.

If you head to your left, up Mint Street, you will come to The Tower Mint. This street is also home to the “casemates”, a series of homes built into the walls where many of the Yeoman warders live.

The Tower Mint is open for visiting. It was established here in 1279, and for 500 years, most of the coins in circulation in the country were produced here. A visit to the mint will teach you all about this process, as well as about the people who lived and worked here. There are also some fun interactive games you can play.

The Battlements

The inner curtain wall of the Tower of London separates the outer ward from the inner ward. This was built during the reign of Henry the III in the 13th century, and much of what you see today is original from this period.

It consists of 13 towers (Bell, Beauchamp, Devereux, Flint, Bowyer, Brick, Martin, Constable, Broad Arrow, Salt, Lanthorn, Wakefield, and the Bloody Tower) which are linked by walls, and the whole construction is generally referred to today as the Battlements.

When built, this primarily served a defensive function. Today, you can walk along the majority of the battlements by taking the wall walk. This takes you through a number of the towers, with many of them setup to show mini exhibitions. In these, you’ll learn all sorts of things about the Tower’s history, from the time the walls were breached during the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, the Tower’s time as a zoo (the Royal Menagerie), and what happened at the Tower during the World Wars.

One of the more intriguing exhibits for us was about the great fire here that took place in 1841 when Duke of Wellington was the Tower Constable. Another was a room devoted to the history of the animals that were kept at the Tower of London here which included lions, baboons, bears, alligators, zebras, and elephants. You’ll also see sculptures representing some of the animals that were kept here throughout the site.

The wall walk also take you through the next entry in our guide, the Medieval Palace.

The Medieval Palace

The wall walk along the Battlements starts with you entering St. Thomas’s Tower. This is part of the outer defences of the castle, added by Edward I in the late 13th century. As well as an additional defensive wall wrapping around the outside of the original curtain wall, this features a number of defensive emplacements as well as a large tower.

This tower, St. Thomas’s Tower, was built to serve two purposes. First, it had a river-level water gate entrance, offering direct access to the Thames. This came to be known as Traitors’ Gate, as this was where many Tudor-era prisoners would arrive prior to incarceration, often followed by torture and/or execution.

The upper floor of St. Thomas’s Tower was designed to provide luxurious lodging for the Royal family when they stayed at the Tower. Today, St. Thomas’s Tower along with the next two towers you pass through on the wall walk, The Wakefield Tower and the Lanthorn Tower, are collectively known as the Medieval Palace.

These towers are today set up to demonstrate what the interior would have been like for the visiting Royalty, with objects and furniture dating from the period.

The Crown Jewels in the Waterloo Barracks

A highlight for many visitors to the Tower of London is a visit to see the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom. This is a collection of royal ceremonial objects, which include the crown worn by the British monarch. It’s the most complete collection of Royal regalia in the world, and the only set still in active use today.

The Tower of London has traditionally been home to the Crown Jewels since the early 13th century. The Jewels on display and in use today primarily date from 1660 when Charles II ascended the throne and restablished the monarchy following the English Civil War.

A highlight of the collection is the Cullinan I diamond, which is the largest clear cut diamond in the world at 530 carats. There are however over 23,000 precious stones in the display, which consists of 142 objects, including plates, swords, sceptres, robes, rings and even a spoon.

My favourite object is the nautical themed silver-gilt Grand Punch Bowl, which can hold 144 bottles of wine, and which is still in regular use!

A visit to the Crown Jewels is a must when visiting the Tower of London. It’s one of the most popular attractions, and one of the only places where photography isn’t allowed. At busier times, there can be quite a queue to visit, so do plan accordingly.

The White Tower

Right at the heart of the Tower of London is the White Tower, the oldest part of the Tower of London and one of the oldest buildings in London.

The building is a keep, which in medieval times was a central fortified tower that normally had the most protection of any building in a castle. It was built in stone in the late 11th century, and fulfilled the role of fortress, royal accommodation, prison and symbol of power. Over the years it’s use evolved, including during the 17th century when the whole tower was used, rather riskily, to store a vast quantity of gunpowder.

Since the 19th century, the White Tower has primarily been a visitor attraction, and a visit to this incredible 11th century medieval palace is a must when inside the Tower of London. Here you will see a number of exhibits including the Line of Kings, which has been on display at the Tower of London since around 1692! Today this historic exhibition is found on the entrance floor of the White Tower.

You’ll also find other interesting armor and weaponry on display, as well as a beautiful 11th century Romanesque chapel, the Chapel of St. John the Evangelist. Note that whilst photography is allowed almost everywhere in the White Tower, it is not permitted in the chapel.

There are also exhibits about the lesser known uses of the Tower of London here including as a jewel, house, records office, Board of Ordnance headquarters, royal mint, menagerie, and royal observatory.

The Bloody Tower

Originally known as the Garden Tower, the Bloody Tower is one of the towers making up the battlements. It gained its rather gruesome name in the 16th century. Two young princes, one of whom was the deposed King and the other was his brother and therefore next in line, were effectively imprisoned in the tower by their uncle the Duke of Gloucester, the future Richard III.

Following their imprisonment and subsequent mysterious disappearance, rumours abounded of their being murdered, and so the Bloody Tower got its name. In 1674, the bones of two children of similar ages were found beneath the staircase in the White Tower at the Tower of London.

Today, you can learn about the Princes and what may have happened to them with a visit to the Bloody Tower. You’ll also learn about other high profile prisoners who stayed here, including Sir Walter Raleigh, who was imprisoned here for 13 years.

Lower Wakefield Tower

Next to the Bloody Tower is the Wakefield Tower, another of the towers along the inner curtain wall. In the lower part of this tower is the Torture at the Tower exhibit.

Over the centuries, and particularly in the 16th and 17th century, there was much political and religious change in the country. These changes resulted in many prisoners being held at the Tower. Often, it was suspected that they held information on co-conspirators, or where perhaps not forthcoming enough with a confession.

Interrogators at the Tower used a range of rather awful devices to extract information from their prisoners, and you can learn all about these at the Torture at the Tower exhibit.

The Fusilier Museum

Formed in June 1685, The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers were originally formed to guard the guns at the Tower of London. Since then, the regiment has seen service in conflicts around the Globe, from the American War of Independence through to the Napoleonic Wars and the Great Wars of the 20th century.

They still have their regimental headquarters inside the walls of the Tower of London, where on the ground floor you can visit the Fusilier Museum . This museum tells the story of the regiment from its formation right up to the present day via a series of objects and information panels, and is well worth the visit.

Tower Green & Scaffold Site

To the west of the White Tower, near the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula you’ll find an expanse of grass as well as a memorial.

This area, known as Tower Green, was the site of some of the most high profile executions in British history. Only those of high rank had the privilege of being executed here. Ten people were beheaded on the green, including two of Henry VIII’s wives, Queens Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard.

Today there is a memorial sculpture to those who lives were taken on the green.

Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula

Just to the north of Tower Green is the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula. “Ad Vincula” is Latin for “in chains”, so this is the Chapel of St. Peter in chains. The chapel is the parish church of the Tower of London, and whilst there has been a chapel on site for many centuries, the current building dates from 1520 and the reign of Henry VIII.

The chapel is perhaps most well known as the final resting place for many of the high profile prisoners who were executed at the Tower. These include Queen Anne Boleyn, Queen Catherine Howard, Lady Jane Grey, and Sir Thomas More. There were many other people interred here, including a number of martyrs who went on to become Saints.

The Chapel Royal is open for visitors and also has prayer services. It’s one of the few places in the Tower of London where photography isn’t allowed.

Beauchamp Tower

Another of the towers in the battlements, although not part of the wall walk, is the Beauchamp Tower. This 13th century tower was used as a prison for most of its history. It takes its name from Thomas Beauchamp, who was imprisoned here at the end of the 14th century.

Being imprisoned at the Tower was, for most prisoners, a very challenging experience. Many had already been condemned to death, and were passing time in fairly grim conditions. Not every prisoner had their own apartments, like Sir Walter Raleigh!

To pass the time and alleviate boredom, many prisoners took to carving graffiti into the walls of the castle. This is still visible today, and coming to see this graffiti has in fact long been a popular pastime amongst visitors to the Tower.

The Beauchamp Tower has a number of intricate carvings in the walls, along with more standard names and dates. These can all be visited and seen as part of the Imprisonment at the Tower Exhibition, found within the Beauchamp Tower.

One of the most well known sights at the Tower of London are the Tower Ravens. These large black birds have been a common sight at the Tower of London for centuries. The history of the Ravens at the Tower is one of myth and legends, so it’s hard to know exactly what is fact and what is not.

One story goes that the ravens were first encouraged to take up residence at the Tower to enhance the atmosphere at the executions on Tower Hill. Large black birds flapping ominously overhead would certainly lend a certain something to any execution. This association with ravens at the Tower is then said to have led to a captive population being permanently installed by Charles II in the 17th century.

Other scholars disagree, and surmise that this is all a myth put about by romantic Victorians. Certainly, the first known reference of captive Tower Ravens is in an illustration of 1863.

Whichever version of events you choose to believe, the reality is that these days there are always at least six captive ravens who are resident at the Tower, and who are looked after by the Yeoman Warders. The legend goes that should the ravens leave the Tower of London, the Crown will fall, and Britain with it.

Rather than testing this theory, the ravens are kept and fed at the Tower, and you’ll no doubt encounter them on your visit. They are often to be found hopping around after the Yeoman Warders, because they are clever birds who know where their food comes from.

The Yeoman Warders & Guided Tours

An iconic sight at the Tower of London are the Yeoman Warders, commonly known as Beefeaters. These men and women (to date there has only been one woman warder) have the full title Yeomen Warders of Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London, and Members of the Sovereign’s Body Guard of the Yeoman Guard Extraordinary.

The Yeoman Warders are the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London, with the responsibility of looking after the prisoners in the Tower as well as safeguarding the Crown Jewels. They are also the de facto guides at the Tower, and have been helping tourists find their way around the sight and sharing their knowledge since the 19th century.

Yeoman Warders are commonly known as Beefeaters, a term whose origin is shrouded in mystery, but likely has something to do with the quantities of beef that formed a part of their diet. They were formed in 1485, and are the oldest military corp still in existence.

Yeoman Warders are today all former members of the armed services with a minimum of 22 years service. They live within the grounds of the Tower of London with their families, and they lead free guided tours within the Tower. We highly recommend spending a bit of time chatting to a Warder, as they have some wonderful stories and knowledge to share.

They run free guided tours throughout the day which are included with your tickets, and these are well worth joining. The talks cover different topics, and you can find out more when you visit about what’s on that day.

As well as the Yeoman Warders, the Tower of London also has a number of Guards on duty. These are active serving military personnel, responsible for guarding the Jewel House and the Queen’s House.

They are recognisable from their red uniforms and their large furry bearskin caps. As well as their guard role, they also take part in three daily ceremonies at the Tower of London: the Ceremonial Opening, the Ceremony of the Word, and the Ceremony of the Keys.

Whilst photography of the Guards is permitted, you should be aware that these are active military personnel performing an important task. When they are marching or otherwise moving around the site, it is important to stand clear and let them get on with their duties.

Unlike the Yeoman Warders, the Guards are not there to provide visitors with assistance and as such they won’t answer questions. So please be respectful and direct any questions you have to the Yeoman Warders, rather than the Guards.

How Long to Visit the Tower of London For?

As you can see, there is a lot to see and do at the Tower of London. We recommend a minimum of two hours for your visit if you just want to see the highlights, but ideally we’d recommend planning to spend around three hours here. At busier times, attractions like the Crown Jewels can involve a queue time of up to an hour, so you will need to consider this as well.

But you can easily spend most of a day here as there is so much to do and see if you visit all the available attractions. In addition to visiting all the various parts of the Tower and attractions, there are also guided tours you can join (most are free with your ticket) as well as the restaurant, café, and gift shops.

Those visiting with children may want to make sure to take some time between visiting buildings and museums to eat and let the kids enjoy the green spaces.

Is the Tower of London Worth It?

Hopefully having read this guide so far, and seeing all that there is to see and do at the Tower of London, you will agree that the Tower of London is definitely worth it.

Whilst the entry price is relatively high, it is on par with other major attractions in London like the London Eye . You could also spend a full day just at the Tower of London if you wanted to as there is plenty to see and do.

We feel it offers great value for what you can see, which includes many things you just can’t see anywhere else like the Crown Jewels.

Practicalities for Visiting the Tower of London

Like any major tourist attraction, there are a few things to be aware of when visiting the Tower of London.

Facilities at the Tower of London

There are a number of toilets at the Tower of London, some of which offer accessible facilities and some of which offer baby changing facilities.

Buggies and push chairs are allowed at the Tower of London, but due to the ancient cobbled ground many parts of the Tower are not exactly pushchair friendly. There is a buggy park outside the White Tower.

There are first aid services at the Tower of London. If you are visiting with children, there is not a meeting point, but children should be instructed to talk with a Yeoman Warder if they need help.

Security at the Tower of London

Like most locations these days, there are security checks when visiting the Tower of London. If you have any kind of small backpack or bag, it will be searched on entry, and the Tower reserves the right to search visitors on entry as well. Large luggage is not permitted in the Tower.

There are a number of prohibited articles which seem fairly obvious to me. Weapons, including knives with a blade in excess of 3 inches are forbidden, as are fireworks, smoke bombs and pepper spray.

Accessibility at the Tower of London

The Tower of London strives to be an accessible venue, with a number of measures in place to make all visitors welcome. However, there are some limitations, as this is a very old building complex with cobbled areas, steep narrow staircases, and low doorways.

There is a full guide to accessibility at the Tower of London, with detailed information on each area of the Tower and accessibility features. You can download this here .

All visitors with disabilities are welcome to bring a carer free of charge. Tickets for carers can be obtained on the day, with presentation of proof of a registered disability.

Luggage storage Near the Tower of London

Whilst small daypacks are allowed, larger luggage and suitcases are not permitted at the Tower of London. There is also no on-site luggage storage. We suggest checking online luggage storage options here and here .

Photography at the Tower of London

As you can see from this guide, I’ve taken a lot of photos at the Tower of London. So I’m pleased to report that photography is allowed almost everywhere within the Tower. The main exceptions to this rule are:

• the Crown Jewels exhibit and the entire inside of the Jewel House
• the Martin Tower
• the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula.
• the Chapel of St. John in the White Tower

No photography or filming is allowed in these parts of the Tower.

You are also permitted to photograph the Guard and the Yeoman Warders. For the latter, it is always polite to ask permission. For the former, they don’t speak to people usually, but they do expect to have their photos taken. Just be respectful!

If you plan to do any commercial photography or wedding photography, or use photographic equipment such as tripods and selfie sticks, this needs to be arranged in advance. There are also rules in place to safeguard children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Food and Drink at the Tower of London

If you get hungry whilst you are at the Tower of London, you have a few options.

First, you are allowed to bring your own food and drink to the Tower of London. However, do be aware that you are only allowed to consume it in designated areas.

There are also a number of options for eating and drinking at the Tower of London. The largest sit down option is the New Armouries Café. This includes a range of full size hot and cold meals, as well as drinks, snacks, sandwiches, cakes and pastries. This is the best option for a sit down meal.

There are also a number of food and drink kiosks, including an ice cream stand, at various locations around the Tower of London. So you won’t go hungry.

Internet Access at the Tower of London

There is full free WiFi access at the Tower of London. Just connect to the free WiFi network.

Tours of the Tower of London

You can book a tour which includes the Tower of London. Some of these focus on the Tower itself, whilst others will include other sights and experiences across the city.

One thing to note is that the only external guides who are allowed to guide inside the Tower of London are Accredited Guides or Blue Badge guides.

Some tours you’ll find online will say that they include the Tower of London. However, if the tour is not operated by an accredited blue badge guide, the guide will not actually accompany you inside the Tower of London. So you would have to guide yourself for this part of the tour, or join one of the free tours after you enter with a Yeoman Warder.

Here are some options to consider.

• This Tour of the Tower of London includes early access to the Tower and Crown Jewels. You’ll also get to see the opening ceremony, and have a fully guided experience inside the Tower of London
• This full day tour of London includes many of the highlights of London, and finishes with a fully guided tour of the Tower of London
• If you’d like a private tour, this tour with a blue badge guide focuses on the Tower of London, and the guide will accompany you inside throughout the experience
• If you want to see the evening Ceremony of the Keys and also take a quick tour of the Tower, check out this tour . It includes an hour’s tour with a Yeoman Warder as well as the opportunity to watch the Ceremony of the Keys. I have done this tour and the experience is definitely interesting, however it is quite a quick tour and you don’t see inside the White Tower or the Crown Jewels. So for a more complete experience I would probably recommend this morning tour .

Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

To help you get the most out of your Tower of London visit, we’ve put together these tips based on our multiple visits.

Consider a Guided Tour or Audio guide

As you have probably noticed, there’s a lot to see at the Tower of London, and the building itself has been witness to around a thousand years of history. As such, it can be a bit overwhelming!

For this reason, we usually recommend that visitors consider either taking a guided tour or using the on-site audio guide to enhance their visit. For guided tours, the Yeoman warder led tours which are included in your entry ticket are a great option. Alternatively, see our section on recommended tours for other ideas.

Chat with the Yeoman Warders

Whether or not you opt to take one of the free guided tours, we definitely recommend taking some time to talk with the Yeoman Warders. They’re easily recognisable from their uniforms, and they have a wealth of knowledge about the Tower of London.

So whether you have a question about what it’s like to actually live at the Tower of London, or want to know something about its history, these are the people to talk to!

What to Bring

You’ll be spending a few hours at the Tower of London, so we would recommend bringing comfortable clothes and walking shoes, as well as a refillable water bottle. We also recommend either an umbrella or lightweight rainproof coat, whatever time of year you visit. There are quite a few outdoor areas, and the weather in London can be unpredictable even in the summer time!

For more ideas on packing, see our guide to what to pack for London .

Plan your day in advance

There is a lot to see at the Tower of London, so having a general idea of the layout and what order you intend to visit things is a good idea. If you are not sure if you have the time to visit everything (there is a lot to see), you will want to prioritize the areas you really want to see by visiting them first.

Planning ahead can save you retracing your steps and walking further than you need to. As mentioned previously, the site spans 12 acres with two concentric walls surrounding the centre, and attractions found throughout.

The site is well signposted, and you’ll get a free map when you visit. You can also download this in digital form in advance of your visit from the official website here . If you need directions when you’re on site, just ask a Yeoman Warder.

We highly recommend planning to arrive as close to opening as you can, and to head straight for the Crown Jewels exhibition. This tends to be the busiest attraction on the site, and queues can be up to an hour long during peak visiting times. So if you can get this done first then you’ll be able to have a more relaxing time overall.

Attractions Near the Tower of London

The Tower of London is very close to a number of other London attractions. These include:

• Tower Bridge (6 minute walk)
• HMS Belfast (10 minute walk)
• The Shard (20 minute walk)
• Borough Market (20 minute walk)
• St. Paul’s Cathedral (20 minute walk)
• Shakespeare’s Globe (20 minute walk)

As you can see, it would be easy to incorporate a trip to the Tower of London with other sightseeing. See our suggested itineraries for 1 day in London , 2 days in London , 3 days in London and 6 days in London for some ideas.

Where to Stay Near the Tower of London

If you want to stay near the Tower of London, we’ve put together some options for you. It’s worth bearing in mind that The Tower of London is right next to the city of London, so this area is largely dominated by office buildings rather than hotels, however there are some options to choose from. We suggest the following.

• Wombats Hostel – just 13 minutes walk from the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, this well reviewed hostel offers basic shared accommodation. There’s also a bar and shared kitchen facilities on site.
• Clayton Hotel – well located for the city’s financial district and just 15 minutes walk from the Tower of London, this is a very well rated 4* hotel offering comfortably sized en-suite stylish rooms. There’s free WiFi throughout and an on-site restaurant and bar.
• New Road Hotel – this excellent value and well reviewed boutique 4* hotel in Whitechapel is found in a former textile factory. It’s 25 minutes walk to the Tower of London. A wide range of rooms are available, from more budget oriented options through to higher end options with hot tubs and terraces. Rooms are all en-suite and air-conditioned, and there’s also an on-site bar and restaurant.
• Shangri-La Hotel at the Shard – found between floors 34 and 52 of the Shard, rooms at the well reviewed 5* Shangri-La offer some of the most spectacular views of the city you’ll find in any hotel in London. Good sized rooms feature marble en-suite bathrooms with shower and separate bath tub. Rooms also feature air-conditioning, coffee machines and free WiFi, as well as a set of binoculars to enjoy the view! There are three dining and drinking menus on site, and it’s a 20 minute walk to the Tower of London

Of course, there are many more options for accommodation all across London. See our guide to where to stay in London for some more options and tips on which London neighborhoods might be the best place to stay depending on what you plan to visit.

Further Reading for Visiting London

That’s it for our complete guide to visiting the Tower of London! We hope you found it useful to help you decide on the best property for your trip to the city. We’ve also got a number of other resources to help you plan your trip to London and the UK in general which we think you’ll find useful.

• We have detailed itineraries for  1 day in London ,  2 days in London ,  3 days in London  and  6 days in London
• Another popular attraction in London is the London Eye. See our complete guide to visiting the London Eye for everything you need to know for the London Eye
• You’ll need somewhere to stay in the city if you’re here for more than a day. See our guide to where to stay in London for some suggestions across all budgets.
• If you plan on doing much sightseeing in the city, you will likely save money with a London Pass. See our complete  London Pass review here  to see if this might save you money on sightseeing.
• We have a guide to  getting around London , and a guide to  using the Oyster card in London .
• If you’re flying into one of London’s six airports, see our guide to  getting to London from the airport .
• We have a detailed guide to  what to pack for London , to help you prepare for your trip to London.
• We put together some tips on finding the  best Photography Locations in London
• For the Harry Potter fans amongst you, take a look at our guide to finding  Harry Potter in London
• 8 Things to Do in Kensington , London, in case you wanted to focus more on a specific region of the city
• If you enjoy military museums, take a look at our guide to  London’s best military museums and memorial . Also see our  Winston Churchill in London guide .
• Tips on  spending Two Weeks in the UK , should you want to have London as the start of a bigger adventure
• For budget planning, see our guide to  how much it costs to travel in the UK
• Our experience  taking a full day walking tour of London , in case you like the idea of a fully guided day
• Thoughts on  visiting Stonehenge from London as a day trip
• Other good day trips from London include Oxford and Cambridge. See our guide to  Oxford in a day  as well as  things to do in Cambridge  for ideas.
• Heading further north? We have loads of content on  Scotland , including a  2 Day Edinburgh itinerary , a guide to the  North Coast 500  and a  2 Day Glasgow itinerary
• How about heading to Paris from London? We have a detailed guide to the  best way to get from London to Paris  to help you plan
• The  Eyewitness Travel Guide to London , which has all sorts of information within, including more itineraries and ideas for your trip
• Rick Steve’s London  guide, the #1 bestseller on Amazon for UK travel guides, and always an excellent source of relevant information

And that’s it! We hope you found our guide to visiting the Tower of London helpful, and as always, if you have any questions, just pop them in the comments and we’ll answer them as soon as we can!

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There are 6 comments on this post

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Anne Clough says

8th July 2023 at 3:29 pm

Are there water fountains on site to be able to fill my bottles?

Laurence Norah says

8th July 2023 at 3:51 pm

Yes there are. I can also recommend getting a copy of the “Refill” app for your smartphone which has a map of all the water fountains as well as cafes and bars which offer free refills of water bottles 🙂

Have a great time in London!

Nichelle says

6th January 2023 at 6:48 pm

We will bein London April 2 and April 3rd, when can we purchase tickets for the Tower of London?

The website does not show any tickets available to purchase yet.

14th January 2023 at 10:22 am

Hi Nichelle,

Sorry about the slow response! I’m travelling with limited internet at the moment. You are correct, currently tickets beyond the 1st of March are not available. I contacted the Tower of London about this, and they were not able to give me an updated timeframe for when these tickets will go on sale, only to say that you should keep checking the website. Sorry to not be of more help! Have a great trip to London!

29th December 2021 at 11:18 pm

great site! do you know if beefeaters will be available in May 2022?

30th December 2021 at 10:12 am

Thanks Susan! Yes, the Beefeaters should be leading their tours in May and also be there for any photos or questions you have. They live on site so they are pretty much always there 🙂

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How To Visit the Tower of London in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, And More

Eddie Saint-Jean Last Updated: October 26, 2023

When in London, you can’t miss the Tower of London. Its fascinating and macabre history as a royal residence, fortress, royal treasury, and prison has many mysterious twists and turns, which will be a lot easier to understand with this visitor’s guide put together by a London expert. Whether you’re going solo or taking our recommended guided tour of the Tower of London, here’s how to visit the Tower of London.   

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our  guide to London  for more planning resources, our best Tower of London tours  for a memorable trip, and the  top things to do in London .

Visiting the Tower of London: What We’ll Cover

The Tower of London is a large complex with a long and often grisly history dating back to the 11th century. This must-see London attraction has been a fortress, a prison, a palace, an arsenal, a museum, and even a zoo with a bizarre collection of animals.

As such, the site comes with lots of interesting legends and folklore you’re not going to want to miss. In this guide, find out how to visit the Tower of London, from tickets to the best guided tours, what to see, and where to eat nearby. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Opening hours and tickets
• How much time to budget for your visit
• What to see in the Tower of London
• Guided tour options
• Facts and history of the Tower of London
• Where to eat nearby

Tower of London Opening Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:

The Tower of London is open seven days a week but admission times change according to the season. During the summer season (March 1 – October 30) the visiting hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 9 am to 5:30 pm; Mondays and Sundays, 10 am to 5:30 pm. Final entry is at 4.30 pm.

Adult tickets cost £29.90 but conditions such as Peak, Off-peak, or Concessions must also be considered. There are also family deals.

• Adult: £29.90 Peak | £28.90 Off-peak.
• Child (Aged 5-15): £14.90 Peak | £14.40 Off-peak.
• Child (Under 5): Free entry.
• Concession: £24.00 Peak | £23.20 Off-peak.
• Family Saver 1 (One adult with a maximum of three children): £52.20 Peak | £50.50 Off-peak.
• Family Saver 2 (Two adults with a maximum of three children): £82.10 Peak | £79.40 Off-peak.

Address: Tower of London

Not ready to book a tour? See the  best Tower of London tours to take and why .

How Long To Spend at the Tower of London

Short Answer: 3 hours

Firstly, it has several ticket offices which help reduce lines. But there are occasions when you could spend 10-15 minutes in the queue. Secondly, there may be more queues inside for attractions that are particularly popular—such as the Crown Jewels—especially during peak hours. However, if you buy your tickets online this can save you both time and money.

A guided tour by an expert takes at least an hour, but more is better. If you do not require a guide for your visit, it will take 3 hours minimum to figure out where to go and what you’re looking at. This will give you time to see everything in the Tower in a comfortable and leisurely way.

What To See in the Tower of London

When you’re in the Tower of London’s massive complex, make sure you see these top sights. For a more detailed list with in-depth descriptions and images, check out our article on the top things to see in the Tower of London .

• The Crown Jewels
• Tower Green
• The White Tower & the Line Of Kings
• The Bloody Tower
• The Medieval Palace
• Armoury in Action
• The Torture at the Tower Exhibition
• The Fusilier’s Museum

Tower of London Tour Options

If you’re planning a trip to the Tower of London, you should certainly consider our guided tours. You don’t want to leave this site underwhelmed because there was so much to see without knowing all the gruesome tales and fascinating history!

We have hand-picked expert guides who can walk you through the tower’s magnificent history and you can learn about the British kings and queens who lived here and were executed here! Also, many enemies of the state and crown were imprisoned here and the history lesson about them will be easier to digest under our expert guidance. 

Did you know most executioners were drunks and often missed their target—for better or worse? Would you rather have an axe to your shoulder or neck? Learn more gruesome facts on these Tower of London guided tours .

Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London (3 hours)

Looking for a guided tour of London’s oldest fortress? Our passionate London guides are ready to take you! This tour starts with a gentle cruise on a River Thames taxi boat where you’ll see London’s iconic skyline and Shakespeare’s Globe Theater from a new perspective.

Then dive deep into history at the Tower of London where your guide makes your trip easy by explaining what you’re seeing in this massive complex. Legends of the ravens, stories of the Beefeaters, a visit to the crown jewels, and much more are included!

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters (2 hours)

Looking for that ultra-exclusive experience at the Tower of London? It doesn’t get much better than this! You get an exclusive, private meeting with a famous Beefeater guard in a room inside the Bloody Tower. These guards know how to entertain you with stories and jokes, and they’re happy to answer your questions too!

After your one-on-one time, the rest of your guided tour of the Tower of London will feel even more enthralling as you hear more tales, truths, and debunked myths about prisoners here at the Tower. Plus, you’ll have a chance to see the collection of the British crown jewels that have no comparison in the world!

Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters (2 hours)

There’s something special about witnessing a time-honored ceremony that’s happened for hundreds of years. This tour gives you exclusive entry to the tower before the crowds as you watch the Beefeaters open the gates. They’ll tell tales and read a royal proclamation at this entertaining event that overshadows how important the tradition actually is.

Then, since you’ve entered before the crowds, you’ll have a chance to explore some of the 18 acres of grounds here as your guide leads you to the most fascinating places at the Tower of London. Step inside a re-created king’s bedroom, see Traitor’s Gate, and enter the Jewel House to see what’s probably the most expensive collection of jewelry and valuables on Earth.

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London (7 hours)

Our top-selling London tour is a must-do when you’re traveling to the heart of the United Kingdom. Your local guides are highly qualified and can share an unreal amount of cool facts and stories about London’s iconic sites and history. Starting at Westminster Abbey, you’ll be amazed at just how much of London you can see on foot and on a Thames river cruise.

Your skip-the-line tickets help you maximize your time, and your guides know where the best spots to see the Changing of the Guard are found. Your final stop at the Tower of London brings London’s more grisly history to life. It’s the perfect place to end your busy day tour of London!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Tower of London tours to take and why .

Facts and History of the Tower of London 

• The Tower of London was built by William the Conqueror around A.D. 1070, a few years after his warriors from Normandy, France conquered Britain. 
• At first, it consisted of just the White Tower, but Henry III (1216-72) and Edward I (1272-1307) added substantial new structures.
• It is one of the few remaining 11th-century European fortress palaces. 
• The enemies of both the monarchy and state were imprisoned and executed here. 
• Two English queens, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, were executed here on the orders of Henry VIII who constantly sought to replace his wives and remarry.
• England’s kings and queens lived here but also kept their treasures and money here knowing this fortified palace was the safest place in Britain.
• The Beefeaters who guard the Tower wear an easily recognisable red uniform. They were once the monarch’s official bodyguards, known as the Yeoman of the Guard or Yeoman Warders. They are known as Beefeaters because the king permitted them to eat as much beef from his table as they could manage. 
• Such are the high levels of security, the Tower was once regarded as impossible to enter illegally. But in 1381, protestors walked in through the gates during the Peasant Rebellion.

Places To Eat Nearby

The Tower of London has its own restaurant, which is just one minute away if you’re looking for a place to eat with a relevant connection. Here are a few more suggestions for places to eat nearby. For more options, check out our guide to the best restaurants near the Tower of London .

New Armouries Restaurant : ££ | Quick Snack —This is the Tower’s official eatery and both hot and cold refreshments are sold here, including snack options and more substantial meals. Of course, you can have fish and chips but also soups, sandwiches, salads, and sweets. 

Cento Alla Torre : £££ | Italian Cuisine —This restaurant is affordable yet has noticeable sophistication. They serve Italian cuisine such as homemade pasta and meat and vegetarian dishes with an artisanal touch. 

La Dame De Pic : ££££ | French Cuisine —This is a classy French restaurant run by the world’s number one female Michelin chef Anne-Sophie Pic. It has two Michelin stars and although expensive, it’s a worthy choice after the comparative grandeur of your Tower of London visit. 

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Where To Stay in London

Deciding where to stay at a great hotel in London can take some effort since it’s a massive city. Make your decision easier with our list of the best neighborhoods and hotels in London.

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10 Things to Do Near Tower Bridge, London

Tower Bridge is without a doubt, one of the most famous London landmarks. Here are the 10 best things to do near Tower Bridge, perfect for first-time visitors to London. However, I’m sure also Londoners wouldn’t have done all of them yet!

This article contains affiliate links .

Are Tower Bridge and London Bridge the same?

Before I share my top things to do near Tower Bridge, let me first clear up one big misunderstanding.

Tower Bridge and London Bridge are most definitely NOT the same.

While London Bridge has the honour of being the oldest bridge in London – originally built by the Romans in 55 BC – it unfortunately isn’t London’s most beautiful bridge. Instead, present-day London Bridge is a boring, inconspicuous concrete bridge.

Want to know more about London Bridge? Then head over to my article: Things to Do Near London Bridge (+ Free Map)

Tower Bridge on the other hand is a real looker. Being the only bascule bridge in London today – on average, it opens three times a day – Tower Bridge with its two towers is a real London icon.

Located next to the Tower of London , it looks like both structures were built around the same time. But in reality, Tower Bridge was built over 800 years after the start of the Tower of London!

Truth is, the outside of Tower Bridge is a cover-up, quite literally.

Since it opened in 1894, during the prosperous Industrial Revolution, Tower Bridge is actually a modern steel framework at heart . Consisting of over 11,000 tons of steel, it was covered with Portland stone. This gives Tower Bridge its characteristic look.

10 Things to Do Near Tower Bridge

Now we know the difference between Tower Bridge and London Bridge, let me share my favourite things to do around Tower Bridge with you. The great thing about this list is that the majority of these London landmarks are free to visit.

1. Go inside Tower Bridge

Just by walking over Tower Bridge, you already get fantastic views of this stunning London landmark. However, for unique views, I recommend a visit inside Tower Bridge.

Yes, that’s right. You can actually go inside Tower Bridge!

In the Tower Bridge Exhibition you’ll learn all there is to know about the construction of this iconic London landmark. But also interesting trivia, such as: Why is Tower Bridge painted blue? ( Answer: it was painted blue, white and red for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977.)

The highlight of my Tower Bridge visit was to walk over the walkways that connect the two towers. Both of these walkways have a glass floor section, each measuring 11m x 1.8m. Situated at 42 metres above the river Thames , they offer dazzling views of the traffic underneath.

After you’ve been to the top of Tower Bridge, make sure to also visit the engine rooms at water level. Here you get a sense of the powerful engines that enable the bridge to open and close.

How to visit Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge opening times Tower Bridge Exhibition is open daily from 9.30am till 6pm. Last admission is at 5pm. (Exceptions: Tower Bridge is closed from 24 till 26 December. On 1 January it doesn’t open till 10am.) Do you need to book Tower Bridge tickets in advance? My visit was rather spontaneous so I bought a ticket on the day. However, because it’s such a famous London landmark, it can get crowded. To avoid the crowds, you can buy an eTicket prior to your visit. Where is the entrance of Tower Bridge visitor centre? The entrance of Tower Bridge is halfway the bridge on the side of Tower of London. The entrance to the engine rooms is at the southbank of the Thames. (So on the opposite side of the river as Tower of London.) Website: Tower Bridge

Skip the lines and buy your tickets for Tower Bridge here!

2. Climb the Monument to the Great Fire of London

Want to see London’s skyline from a different perspective? Then I challenge you to climb the 311 steps of the spiralling staircase inside Monument . Do you see that small golden crown at the top? That’s the viewing platform from where you can enjoy panoramic views of London .

The Monument to the Great Fire of London , as it’s officially known, is basically a very tall column. A 62m-tall column to be exact. When it was completed in 1677, there weren’t any other tall structures around. Imagine what an impressive sight this must’ve been!

But why is Monument 62 metres tall? This is not a random height but actually has a historical reference. Because, if you’d put the column on its side, its top would meet the location where the notorious Great Fire of London started on 2 September 1666.

Starting from the oven of a City bakery, the fire lasted for four days and burnt down pretty much the whole of London at the time. Over 13,000 houses and 87 churches, including St Paul’s Cathedral, were destroyed in those fires.

And as the name suggests, this column was built in commemoration to this tragic event.

How to visit Monument to the Great Fire of London

How much does it cost to go up the Monument? I bought a combi ticket for Tower Bridge and Monument which costs £12.80. A single adult ticket to Monument costs £5.40 and are only available on site on the day. (Prices as of April 2020.) Where is the entrance of Monument? The entrance of Monument is right opposite Monument Tube station. You really cannot miss it! How long does it take to climb the monument London? Depending on your fitness level, the climb takes 5 to 10 minutes. It was actually easier than expected, but the staircase is quite narrow. Be aware that it’s not accessible for wheelchairs. Website: The Monument London

Buy your discounted combi ticket Tower Bridge and Monument directly here!

3. Visit the Tower of London

Tower of London is another historical site close to Tower Bridge, but thankfully one that is much easier on the calves.

Originally built as a fortress by William the Conquerer in 1078, the royal palace gets its name from its oldest building: the White Tower. That’s the square structure on the right in the photo below.

Over the centuries, monarchs succeeding William added extensions to the Tower. That explains all the different building styles and various layers as you can see in the photo below.

Throughout history, the Tower of London has had various functions. Most people immediately think of the Tower as the home of the Crown Jewels . Or as a notorious prison and place of execution of notables such as Anne Boleyn.

But what a lot of people don’t know is that the Tower of London was also home to an eclectic collection of exotic animals. Often gifted by foreign dignitaries and royals, the Royal Menagerie at the Tower of London housed animals such as tigers, lions, baboons, a polar bear and even an African elephant.

When they finally dissolved the Royal Menagerie in the 19th century, some animals were shipped abroad. But a selection were moved to North London, which was the start of the London Zoo in Regents Park.

You can find animal sculptures in reference to these former royal ‘pets’ all around the grounds. And during your visit you can read the weird stories about these royal animals. Such as the one about the polar bear that used to fish in the Thames.

Is Tower of London worth visiting?

How much does it cost to visit the Tower of London? Considering an adult ticket to the Tower of London costs nearly £30, it’s not a cheap London attraction. If it’s worth visiting is of course entirely up to you and your personal interests. If you’re interested in history, then it’s a great thing to do. But be aware that it’s a major tourist attraction that can get very crowded. What is there to see in Tower of London? Many visitors come here just to see the Crown Jewels. But I found it more interesting to learn about all the different functions of the Tower during its history. In the past it’s been used as an armory, barracks and royal mint, amongst others. You get to explore this all in the individual exhibitions. How long does it take to visit the Tower of London? Allow yourself at least two hours to visit the Tower of London. Website: Tower of London

Buy your Tower of London tickets here and gain direct access! Or, enjoy the special Tower of London Early-Bird VIP Access giving you the unique opportunity to attend the official Tower of London opening ceremony giving you access before the crowds arrive!

4. Find the St Dunstan in the East London church ruins

Rather want to visit a less famous tourist attraction in London? Then head down to the nearby church ruins St Dunstan in the East . Originally built as a Saxon church, the remains of St Dunstan in the East are now a public garden.

Compared to when I first came here, it has become more popular in recent years, especially amongst photographers. But if you come here early, chances are you can still enjoy the park in peace and quiet.

A few months ago, a Dutch couple booked a private tour along hidden London landmarks with me. Little did the girl know though, that her boyfriend was going to propose to her during their romantic London city break. Together we hatched a master plan leading to the perfect wedding proposal at these church ruins. Obviously she said yes!

5. Enjoy FREE panoramic views from London Sky Garden

This is actually one of my favourite things to do in London and an activity I recommend to most visitors. Located at the 35th floor of the ‘Walkie Talkie’ skyscraper, Sky Garden offers spectacular views of London. And the best thing is that it’s completely free to visit!

Read more about this attraction near Tower Bridge in my article: Visit Sky Garden London, a Spectacular Free Viewing Point . It gives you all the information you need to plan your visit.

6. Visit the charming Leadenhall Market

Despite having been featured in the first Harry Potter film, the Victorian Leadenhall Market is still pretty much a hidden gem in London.

Leadenhall Market dates back to the 13th century already. Originally a meat market, it later expanded to sell cheese and eggs. Today you can still find a dedicated cheese and also wine shop here, but the majority of shops are non-food related. But besides shops, you’ll also find a few restaurants and pubs here.

Especially these latter attract greater crowds here during the week. Come here after the nearby offices have closed, and you’ll find droves of City workers enjoying their pints in Leadenhall Market. At the weekend on the other hand, it’s completely deserted. Well, with the exception of the occasional London tour guide like myself.

7. Find historical Roman London sites

I referred to London’s Roman past at the very beginning of this post when I mentioned that London Bridge was built by the Romans. The Romans did far more than that actually. They actually founded London, calling it Londinium .

Considering the Romans were in London from 43 AD till the 5th century, you can still find a significant number of Roman sites in London. For example the large surviving piece of the Roman Wall next to the Tower of London.

Find more Roman sites in my article: Where to Find Historical Roman London Sites . Lots of them are near Tower Bridge, so I recommend exploring them using my guide mentioned above.

8. Wander through Butler’s Wharf

When you cross Tower Bridge coming from Tower of London, you’ll have the impressive Butler’s Wharf on your left. Completed in the 1870s, this was London’s largest warehouse complex.

Imported tea, coffee, spices and dried fruit would be shipped out here from Asia and stored in what was called the ‘larder of London’. The goods would be distributed from the front warehouse further down the complex using wheelbarrows over the bridges you see in the photo below.

As the industrial hub moved further east, Butler’s Wharf fell in disuse. Since it was a cheap area to live, it became particularly popular amongst artists in the 1970s. It even featured in the early Doctor Who series! But soon after, the buildings were redeveloped in expensive flats, offices and restaurants.

Although there’s not much to do in the wharf anymore, I highly recommend exploring the area as it’s such a unique sight. If you’re interested in London history and old warehouse buildings like me, then this is a real must-see!

9. Go on a self-guided walk along secret London landmarks

I already alluded to it at in the previous sentence, but the main thing I love about London is its long and fascinating history. So many important events have taken place here and numerous famous people have once called the city their home.

Take Charles Dickens for example. You might know his book Christmas Carol . But in The  Uncommercial Traveller he refers to a number of obscure London sights, such as the three skulls above the gate of St Olave’s Church. Or the Aldgate Water Pump that you see in the second photo below. Initially lauded for its nutritious fresh water, it soon led to a deadly pandemic.

Being the history nerd I am, I put together a special route for our wedding anniversary a few years ago. Besides the two sites in the photos, it also included the oldest surviving church in the City of London and a few other locations mentioned in this article. It was a very romantic day out indeed, ha ha!

Want to explore some lesser-known London sights?

Then follow my self-guided walk along secret London landmarks . If you’re starting from Tower Bridge, then first go to All Hallows by the Tower. From there, go to St Olave’s Church, followed by St Dunstan in the East. Make your way to the Lower Thames to pass Old Billingsgate Market and then make your way up again to Monument. Finally, go to Leadenhall Market and follow Leadenhall Street to end at the Aldgate Water Pump.

10. Go for a stroll along the river Thames

If you follow the river Thames from Tower Bridge to the west, you’ll see lots of the most popular London attractions. (Just make sure you’re on the south bank of the river.)

This is actually one of my favourite London city walks, and also one of my regular Dutch-language tours in London . Starting at Tower Bridge, you’ll pass famous London landmarks such as City Hall , HMS Belfast , The Shard , London Bridge , Borough Market , Tate Modern , St Paul’s Cathedral , London Eye and Palace of Westminster .

From there you could even wander down Trafalgar Square , Buckingham Palace , Piccadilly Circus and Soho if you want. Since I’ve been doing these guided tours, I realise it’s so easy to see the centre of London on foot! (Yes, I do go through several pairs of shoes a year ha ha!)

How to get to Tower Bridge

The easiest way to get to Tower Bridge is by Tube . Take the Circle of District Line to Tower Hill Tube station. Or take the DLR to Tower Hill DLR station . From both stations it’s a 10-minute walk to Tower Bridge and less than 5 minutes to Tower of London.

Alternatively, you could take the riverboat to St Katherine Pier . From there it’s a 5-minute walk to Tower Bridge. This is actually a fun combination of travelling and some London sightseeing. There’s a circular cruise line from Westminster to St. Katherine. In addition, there’s also one that starts in Greenwich and goes to Westminster via St. Katherine.

Use the Transport for London website to plan your journey, either by Tube, DLR or boat.

Restaurants near Tower of London / Tower Bridge

You’ll find plenty of places to eat near Tower Bridge. Most of them are located between Tower of London and Tower Hill Tube station. You’ll find the majority are sandwich shops or fast food restaurants.

If you’re after freshly prepared food, then I recommend going to Coppa Club Tower Bridge . The food is good, prices are surprisingly low and the views of the Tower of London are just stunning! I’d definitely recommend booking online beforehand. And if you book early enough, you might be lucky to reserve one of their igloos.

Nearby St Katherine’s Docks also offer a number of good restaurants in walking distance from Tower Bridge and Tower of London.

Hotels near Tower of London / Tower Bridge

My top recommendation for a hotel near Tower Bridge is citizenM Tower of London . This funky hotel offers modern rooms (which do feel a bit overdesigned at times) for great prices. From their rooftop bar you have stunning views of the London skyline including Tower of London.

Book your stay at citizenM Tower of London here!

Tell me, which of the attractions near Tower Bridge would you like to visit? Let me know in a comment below! Thanks, Zarina xx

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50 thoughts on “ 10 Things to Do Near Tower Bridge, London ”

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This part of London can be touristy but if you go off the main roads, there are some real gems! I would also recommend Bermondsey Street and Maltby Street Market in this area, for a collection of art, culture and great coffee and food. Bermondsey Street is home to White Cube Gallery and the Fashion & Textile Museum as well as great coffee shops and take-away lunch spots, and the square at the end of it is home to a weekly antiques market. Maltby Street is a wonderful combination of antique and vintage furniture shops, street food from all over the world, and hidden cocktail bars!

Thanks for these suggestions, but I saved these tips for my yet to write article about London Bridge as those sites you mention are closer to that than Tower Bridge 😉 But I like your enthusiasm!

Wie weet, kom ik er ooit nog weleens. Ben er een aantal keren geweest, begin jaren ’80 eenmaal, daarna in ’89 en ’90 nogmaals. De laatste twee als tourist, de eerste keer op familiebezoek bij mijn toenmalige vriendje. Ik zal jouw blog dan zeer zeker raadplegen en misschien zelfs wel een VIP tour boeken langs de mooiste graffiti sites, lijkt mij fantastisch om dat ooit nog eens te kunnen doen met jou. Wie weet, ik heb inmiddels al meer dingen gedaan die ik nooit meer dacht te kunnen doen. En hoop doet leven, toch?! Dankjewel! xx

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Wat een uitgebreide blogpost zeg. Ik ben een aantal jaren naar Londen geweest en vond het een erg toffe stad. Een paar dagen was toen eigenlijk al niet genoeg.. van je lijstje kan ik ook maar amper iets afstrepen. Nog genoeg te ontdekken dus! 🙂

I have been wanting to visit London for a long time now. I am very intrigued by its museums and heritage buildings. Thanks for coming up with this detailed post.

Wow, I had no idea about the existence of the Leadenhall Market, it looks great! Next time I visit London I will surely include it on my to do list.

There certainly is a lot to do in the area! I personally like walking along the river.

I was in London last year with my husband and friend, and we had an absolute blast! We almost checked everything off of your list except the London Sky Garden. It looks stunning! We’ll have to visit it next time.

I always think of this part of London as super touristy but we recently stayed near Tower Bridge on a trip home to the UK and I really enjoyed it. You have included all the best spots (although, maybe add in St Katherine’s Docks – I love it in winter when it’s all lit up, and there is some great food there…)

Tower Bridge is definitely one of the London landmarks that I take waaay too many photos of! 😀

We stayed near the Tower Bridge when we visited London last time, and liked exploring this part of the City that we didn’t know before. We also went on a free food tour in the East End and it was awesome! We crossed the bridge, and strolled along the Thames at the Christmas Market. It was really beautiful during Christmastime!

For a long time I, like probably many others had thought that London Bridge and Tower Bridge were the same! But actually there is so much more to Tower Bridge than just the iconic bridge itself, Would love to walk around in the footsteps of Dickens.

I loved reading this, I’ve been living in London for 18 months but have come home to Wales during Quarentine and reading this made me miss London so much! I love walking around near Tower Bridge but I had never heard of St Dunstan church – I will definitely check that out once it’s safe to do so. Also, how amazing that you got to be part of that couples engagement!

Ik ben twee keer in Londen geweest maar de Tower Bridge tot nu toe alleen van de buiten kant gezien. Lijkt me wel heel tof! Dat de Londen bridge een andere is, kwam ik met nieuwjaar achter toen ik ons vak voor de vuurwerk show aan het zoeken was.

Oeps, je stond toch niet bij de verkeerde brug toen?!? 😉

Such an extensive list of things to see! thanks for sharing, I cant wait to visit London, its been too long!

You’re welcome! Happy to have inspired you and share some of my favourite tips with you 🙂

Keeping this list in mind for my next trip to London! I’ve been to London a couple times for work, but I still need to do more sightseeing! Also, I definitely made the London Bridge / Tower Bridge mistake! Love the Sky Garden! I have only been in the evening, and seeing your photos make me want to go back during the day. Thanks for sharing!

Your post brings back wonderful memories. I have only been in London once and that was in 1980. I still remember looking at the awesome crown jewels in the Tower and I recall seeing majestic Tower Bridge. But I don’t thibnk we went into the bridge. Good to know, if I ever get back to London again.

Ah wow, that’s a long time ago! I’m sure it was completely different around Tower of London by then. Don’t think you could even go inside Tower Bridge back then though. And Butler’s Wharf and that whole area on the Thames from Tower Bridge to London Bridge would have looked so different from now, bet it was really empty while it’s filled with skyscrapers now!

Gorgeous photos! I would love to take my kids to London one day. Perhaps it’s best I wait a few years until they’re older and can fully appreciate all the incredible sights!

Thank you! 🙂 And yeah, since it’s quite the trip to make, I think it would be more fun if the kids were a bit older. Happy planning and hope you’ll use my site for some inspiration 🙂

I absolutely love London, such an incredible city with so much history. I have been many times, but still haven’t actually been into the Tower Bridge! I also just tried to turn up at the Sky Garden so need to make sure I book a slot in advance next time as it looks like an amazing viewpoint. This guide is so useful even for people that have been to London several times.

Cool and nice pics! London is so great. This article reminds me on the citytrip we did 2 years ago.

Ben jaren geleden 2 x in London geweest. Ik hoop na Corona periode er nogeens heen te gaan en zal je blog opzoeken voor de tips dank hiervoor

Dan zal er in de tussentijd wel het een en ander zijn veranderd in de stad, het gaat erg snel de laatste jaren! Leuk als je mijn tips gaat gebruiken voor een toekomstig bezoek. En ik geef ook Nederlandstalige rondleidingen in Londen, mocht je dat leuke vinden 🙂

I’ve been to London quite a few times, but I didn’t even know about most of these! I had no idea you could actually enter Tower Bridge 🤯 I will definitely be keeping this guide in mind when I next visit London, I definitely want to have done all of these at least once!

Leuk dat er zoveel plekjes rond 1 trekpleister zijn! Dringend een weekendje Londen plannen!

Ja, doen! Altijd goed en als je je erin verdiept, dan is er stiekem heel veel te ontdekken op sommige locaties, vooral in de historische kern van Londen 🙂

Ik ben wel eens in New Castle geweest,maar nooit in Londen. Wordt nodig tijd!

En ik ben nog nooit in Newcastle geweest! 😉

Ik ben er al eens geweest, lang geleden. Het is er prachtig. Had ik deze info toen maar geweten want ik zie dat ik veel leuke dingen gemist heb!

Londen is niet ver weg van Nederland, ideale stedentrip 😉

Love this and such a useful guide! x

Thanks for your lovely comment! Glad you liked it 🙂

Thank you for this list!

My pleasure! 🙂

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The 34 Best Things to Do in London, According to a Local

Top things to do in london.

L ondon ranks high among the best places to travel in the world, attracting millions of visitors from all corners of the globe every year. It may not be one of the cheap places to travel, but there are so many things to do in London that it's definitely worth a visit. So, once you've figured out the best time to visit London and the best time to book a flight —and you've watched King Charles's coronation to get in the mood—where to start?

If you've never been to London, you'll want to make sure to see the most important sights, but also some hidden gems we locals enjoy. I have been living in London for more than five years. I planned to just stay for a few weeks, but I fell in love with the city at first sight—and I still schedule in regular time for exploring my adopted home. I love to share my favorite spots as a travel writer, and I am on speed dial for friends, family and friends of friends who are visiting. It's impossible to fit everything London has to offer into one trip (or even one lifetime!), but it's easy to make the most of your time if you just know how.

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Big Ben is London's most famous landmark, so it's a must-see for all travelers. The name refers to the huge bell inside the clock tower, which first chimed on May 31, 1859, but the whole building at the north end of the Houses of Parliament goes by this nickname. Big Ben was renamed Elizabeth Tower in honor of Queen Elizabeth II 's Diamond Jubilee in 2012, but most people don't call it that.

The tower underwent extensive renovations from summer 2017, and there was much excitement when the bells first rang again in November 2022. It's still not possible to climb up Big Ben quite yet, but the big reopening for visitors is scheduled for later in 2023. Your best bet for a picture-perfect view of the tower and the Houses of Parliament is from Westminster Bridge.

Pro tip: If you want to take a selfie with Big Ben, the best spot is just behind the landmark, on Great George Street. When coming from Westminster Bridge, walk past the tower and the tube station (Westminster) toward St. James's Park, Westminster Abbey to your left. While it might be a bit cliché to pose next to a red phone box, the photo will still look great on your Instagram—and many Londoners snap this shot too.

• Westminster Abbey

If you followed King Charles 's coronation (or other festive royal events such as Prince William  and Kate Middleton 's wedding) you're probably already familiar with Westminster Abbey . But London's most iconic church is even more impressive when you step foot inside yourself. Westminster Abbey was founded in 960 AD and has been the coronation church since 1066. It is also the final resting place of no fewer than 17 monarchs (the late Queen Elizabeth is buried in Windsor Castle), scientists such as Sir Isaac Newton and world-famous writers including Charles Dickens.

Westminster Abbey is both one of London's top tourist attractions and a working church with daily services—so be prepared for crowds and parts of the abbey closed. The church is busiest in the mornings, so visit after lunchtime if you can book a time slot.

Pro tip: While it's perfectly possible to explore the abbey with an audio guide (included in the ticket price), their guided tours are worth a bit of extra money. You will get to see parts of Westminster Abbey that are normally closed to the public, including royal tombs, the Poets' Corner and Lady Chapel—and you'll get to hear lots of interesting facts and anecdotes.

The London Eye

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the Thames River, and it's been a London landmark of its own for over 20 years, so no list of the things to do in London would be complete without mentioning it. But is it really worth it? Let's face it, the 30-minute-ride comes with a big price tag and potentially long queuing times on top. However, on a sunny day (or at night!) the views are truly stunning. If you're lucky, you'll not only see all the London sights including Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and the Tower Bridge but all the way up to Windsor Castle too. So if you are new to London and don't mind spending some cash, go for it. Fun fact, the London Eye is also one of the top places in the U.K. for people on romantic getaways —and, in fact, to get engaged. They even offer special proposal packages with private pods and champagne.

Pro tip: Technically, you can just show up and buy your ticket on-site, but booking online saves you time and money. There are also discounted combination tickets including a river cruise or entry to Madame Tussaud's.

The Tate Modern

Museums rank high among the most popular attractions in London—and not just because you can visit them regardless of the weather. If you only have time for one, make it the Tate Modern , which is one of the most popular museums in the world . The massive art space with its iconic tower is housed in the former Bankside Power Station and sits right near the Thames, across from St Paul's Cathedral.

The exhibition spaces spread over seven floors and include original works by the likes of Picasso, Matisse and Warhol. Like most museums in London, the Tate Modern is free to visit, unless you want to see a special exhibition (book well in advance in that case). Should you be keen to see the Tate's sister gallery Tate Britain as well, hop on the Tate Boat right in front of the building and travel door to door in style. Boats run every 20 to 30 minutes during museum open hours.

Pro tip: Fancy turning your Tate Modern visit into a fun night out? Keep an eye on the monthly Tate Lates , a mix of art workshops and talks, DJs, bars and live music.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the British monarchs since 1837, and even though all the royal family currently live at other royal estates , it remains the place most associated with the crown. A highlight not to be missed is the Changing of the Guard, a traditional ceremony that sees one detachment of troops taking over from the other, marching along The Mall to Buckingham Palace with musical accompaniment (expect both traditional tunes and pop songs). It takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and daily during the summer, at 11 A.M. It's one of the best free tourist attractions in London. For a prime spot, arrive at least one hour in advance, as the area gets packed year-round.

Pro tip: The State Rooms inside Buckingham Palace are open to visitors on selected dates during winter and spring, as well as for 10 weeks in summer. Tour tickets sell out quickly, so check dates and book as early as you can.

The Tower Bridge

Walking across the Tower Bridge is a must-do when in London. But nothing beats watching the landmark lift for tall vessels, including cruise ships , to pass through. River traffic has priority on this stretch of the Thames by law, meaning ships can request a lift any time of the day, bringing the traffic on the bridge to a complete halt. On average, the Tower Bridge opens twice a day. But what's the secret behind being at the right place at the right time? Luckily, it's pretty simple, as you can check online  to see when the bridge next lifts.  Then, make sure to arrive on time to watch the spectacle unfold.

Pro tip: For a full view of the lift (and great photo opportunities), position yourself on the river banks or a bridge opposite Tower Bridge. For a more close-up experience, stand on either end of the bridge.

Portobello Road Market

In the 1990s, the movie Notting Hill , starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, made the West London neighborhood of the same name known around the world as a romantic travel destination . But even if you're not a fan of rom-coms , Notting Hill and its famous Portobello Road Market —considered the largest antique market on the planet—have a lot to offer. The stalls, fold-out tables and shops are packed with vintage treasures, from lamps and chairs to paintings, jewelry and secondhand clothing, which makes it a great place for souvenir hunting. The market is open six days a week, but Saturday is the main day when all the sellers, antique hunters and street food vendors are out.

Pro tip: Notting Hill's signature pastel houses are just as famous as the market, and selfies on the steps around the Hillgate Place and Lancaster Road area are high on many visitors' bucket lists. Please keep in mind though that people actually live in these houses, so don't stare into their windows or leave trash behind.

The West End

The West End is London's equivalent to Broadway in New York City and the heart of commercial theater and musical productions in the U.K. More than 16 million people watched performances here in 2022, making tickets one of the hottest holiday gifts . Whether you're into the classics such as Les Miserables (running since 1985) and The Phantom of the Opera (since 1986) or want to see a feel-good musical featuring songs by Tina Turner, ABBA or Queen, this is the place. The Disney musicals are among the most popular things to do in London with kids, but they're just as fun to watch as an adult. For crime fans, Agatha Christie's Mousetrap is a must-see.

Pro tip: If you haven't set your mind on a specific show, you can score excellent last-minute deals on the day using the TodayTix app (look for "rush tickets" at 10 a.m. sharp). I've found myself sitting in some of the best seats in the house for around $30, especially on weeknights. Ticket booths around Leicester Square also sell discounted tickets.

The Tower of London

No list of the best things to do in London would be complete without the Tower of London: an iconic castle, former prison and execution location—as well as the home of the crown jewels . The royals' precious accessories have been stored here since 1661 and only leave the Tower when used on official occasions. Want to see King Charles's and Queen Camilla's crowns ? They are right here!

The Tower of London is more than 900 years old, and you can feel its history in every corner. Keep in mind that the complex is not only impressive but also huge, so plan at least a few hours to see everything. Besides its exhibitions, historic halls and the guards with their signature fur hats, the Tower is famous for its wild ravens. According to legend, the kingdom will fall if the six resident ravens ever decide to leave.

Pro tip: Tickets to the Tower of London come with audio guides. If you'd rather have a human companion, opt for a tour with a Beefeater, a working guard at the fortress.

Borough Market

Dating back to the 13th century, Borough Market , on the south side of the Thames, is London's oldest food market and a great food travel destination with more than 100 stalls and plenty of small restaurants and wine bars where you can enjoy lunch or dinner. While the market originally focused on British produce, you can now get Indian curries, pad Thai, Ethiopian stews, falafel wraps, pasta dishes and, of course, the obligatory fish and chips. There are also plenty of stalls to stock up on bread, veggies, wines and sweets to take home or have later in the day. The market is open Tuesday to Sunday.

Pro tip: Borough Market is a lunch favorite with people working at the nearby offices, so expect long queues around noon. If you can't find a quiet spot to eat, make yourself comfy at the riverbank a few minutes away by foot.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter

London is full of locations featured in the Harry Potter movies (think St. Paul's Cathedral, Leadenhall Market, Borough Market or Tower Bridge), which you can explore on your own. But no place gets "muggles" (non-magic people) closer to Harry Potter's world than the Warner Bros. Studio Tour just outside the city. Here you will walk through Diagon Alley, peek into Harry's cupboard under the stairs and explore Hogwarts rooms such as the Great Hall or Dumbledore's office. You can even sample butter beer! The studio decoration changes according to season. I have seen the summer and Christmas versions so far, and Halloween is next on my list.

Pro tip: Advance booking is essential, even during shoulder seasons . Since muggles are, unfortunately, unable to arrive by broom, a shuttle bus from London's Watford Junction is included in the ticket price.

Columbia Road Market

Columbia Road Flower Market may be London's most popular place for flower shopping, and it's a weekend institution in East London. Rain or shine, the whole street gets packed from 8 a.m. every Sunday with dozens of stalls that sell tulips, roses, cacti, spider plants and banana trees. Judging by Instagram posts and people with cameras around their necks, the market might look like a bit of a tourist trap at first glance. But the majority of the visitors are locals who stock up on flowers after coffee or brunch at one of the little cafes in the neighborhood. The flowers are certainly the main selling point on a Sunday, but Columbia Road is dotted with little art shops and galleries too, so take your time to have a look around.

Pro tip: Columbia Road Market tends to be busy year-round, but if you want to avoid the largest crowds, it pays to show up right when it starts. For the best flower deals, come after lunchtime. The stalls close at around 3 p.m.

London's highest public garden, Sky Garden , sits on the 35th floor of the "Walkie Talkie," one of the city's landmark skyscrapers, and it provides spectacular panoramic views. Sky Garden is an oasis of plants, with an observation deck, an open-air terrace and two restaurants. Entry is free, but advance booking is essential. However, once you're in, you're in, so you can technically spend a whole day among the plants.

If you can't get into Sky Garden (or want to shoot more skyline pictures from a different angle), head to The Garden at 120, an open-air rooftop garden on the 15th floor about a five-minute walk away. It might not be as fancy as Sky Garden, but it's usually a lot quieter. I have had the whole garden to myself on weekday mornings more than once.

Pro tip: Tickets for the Sky Garden are released every Monday, and you can book up to three weeks in advance. If you're in the area but don't have a ticket, it's still worth trying your luck at the door, as they sometimes accept walk-ins.

Traditional afternoon tea

While Brits are the champions of tea drinking, afternoon tea is a lot more than just sipping on your favorite blend. The ritual dates back to the 19th century, when the ladies of the high society met for a light meal to shorten the time until dinner was served. Today, it's mainly saved for special occasions, but it also makes one of the most fun things to do in London when on a city break. A traditional afternoon tea menu includes small sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam and a selection of pastries and cakes. Earl Grey, Darjeeling and English Breakfast are the classic tea blends. If you really want to treat yourself, book a table at the glamorous salon at Cafe Royal . Oscar Wilde, Winston Churchill, Princess Diana and David Bowie were regulars here. Live piano music and champagne are included too.

Pro tip: Looking for a more casual afternoon tea option that doubles as a sightseeing tour? Hop on the Afternoon Tea Bus for a 90-minute ride.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

While the Globe Theatre on the South Bank of the Thames isn't the original one from Shakespeare's time (that one burned down in 1613), it's still considered the writer's London home and the closest you could ever get to the original experience. The venue was rebuilt in the same shape and layout, using the original type of wood (green oak) and building techniques. Watch world-famous plays such as A Midsummer Night's Dream , Macbeth and The Comedy of Errors and fully immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare.

Pro tip: The cheapest way to see a play (or get into an otherwise sold-out show) is the " 5£ Rush Tickets ." These are standing tickets right in front of the stage. While you might miss the comfort of a seat, you'll be closer to the action than anyone else (and save a lot of money too!). Tickets are released every Friday at 11 a.m. for the following week.

Little Venice

London is an amazing city to explore on foot, and once you've ticked off all the major sights, it's time to enjoy one of the locals' favorite walks. When I moved to London, I was amazed at how many locals lived on houseboats—it reminded me of The Netherlands, where I spent my college semester abroad. Regent's Canal is dotted with colorful narrowboats, and you can often watch their owners navigate them to and from their mooring spots. The most beautiful stretch is from King's Cross to Little Venice , a beautiful water canal area full of cafés and pubs and framed by willow trees. You will pass Camden and Regent's Park along the way.

Pro tip: Before you head on your two-hour walk, check out Coal Drop's Yard right behind the King's Cross station, with its restaurants, pubs and artsy shops, and Word on the Water, a floating bookstore.

East London's Shoreditch is one of the hippest districts in the city, with little cafes, quirky shops and bars on every corner. It's also the heart of London's street-art scene. Living in Shoreditch, I'm continuously amazed by all the murals and graffiti popping up overnight (and, sadly, often disappearing just as quickly). If you are like me and love taking edgy pictures, you will feel right at home. I always recommend Shoreditch Street Art Tours to friends visiting, a fun and comprehensive introduction to the local street-art scene. If you head out on your own, save Brick Lane, Fashion Street, Hanbury Street, Princelet Street, New Inn Yard, Redchurch Street and Shoreditch Highstreet Station on Google Maps.

To kill two birds with one stone, visit Shoreditch on a weekend when Brick Lane market (lots of food and some art and clothes stalls) takes place. Truman Brewery on Brick Lane is also home to the biggest indoor vintage market in the U.K., which is open seven days a week.

Pro tip: For a quick and inexpensive snack to go, head to Beigel Bake. The 24-hour shop is the most famous bagel place in London. Attention: They only take cash!

Paddle on the Thames River

Even for people who live in London, the city can feel overwhelming at times. Luckily though, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle. London might not be the most obvious choice for water sports, but that's exactly how many locals like to spend their summer. Kayaking and canoeing are hugely popular in the city, with paddling clubs dotted along the Thames and the canals. Companies such as London Kayak Co. offer tours, including for beginners, that double as sightseeing trips , taking you past some of London's most iconic landmarks. Personally, I have become a stand-up paddling (SUP) addict, and my current favorite place to go is Richmond Park . Nothing beats sunset paddling after work or on a weekend, then ending the day on the terrace of a riverside pub.

Pro tip: You don't have to be a kayak or SUP pro to enjoy this activity. As long as you are reasonably fit (and not afraid to fall into the water, should you opt for paddleboarding) you are good to go.

Kensington Gardens

One of London's eight royal parks and formerly part of Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens is a popular recreational area where you can take a stroll, have a picnic, check out exhibitions at the Serpentine galleries, visit Kensington Palace or—if you're traveling with kids—make the most of the Diana Memorial Playground (including a wooden pirate ship and sculptures inspired by Peter Pan).

Ring-necked parakeets have spread all over London, but this park is your best bet to see them up close. And while nobody seems to be quite sure how they originally ended up in London, thousands have called it home since the 1990s. Here, the parakeets are so used to people they will land on your outstretched hands (or your shoulders or your head!) when you bring snacks (apples or seeds)—and sometimes even if you don't. Be aware, though, that the cute birds have surprisingly sharp claws, so your arms might end up looking like you've just been scratched by an angry cat.

Pro tip: The parakeets can be found near the Peter Pan statue in Kensington Garden. If you arrive by tube, get off at Lancaster Gate, walk past the lake and follow the squawking.

Summer music festivals

Glastonbury (the British equivalent to Coachella) is the No. 1 festival every music fan in the U.K. wants to attend. But London has a great number of other festivals, too, that are well worth checking out. Plus, there's no camping, so you can leave your sleeping bags and rain boots at home.

The largest event every year is the British Summer Time Festival in Hyde Park , commonly known as BST. It spreads over multiple dates throughout two weeks from the end of June. This year's headliners include Bruce Springsteen, Guns N'Roses and Pink. Other festivals I've attended that I'd definitely recommend: All Points East (two weekends in August, offering rock, indie and alternative music), Wireless (in July, a mecca for hip-hop fans), Mighty Hoopla (early June, a celebration of cheesy pop and queer culture, with lots of attendees dressed up accordingly) and Hampton Court Palace Festival (multiple days in June, come for both the music and the location).

Pro tip: For environmental reasons and due to the fact that London's summers get hotter by the year, many festivals now allow music fans to take refillable bottles inside, with water stations to be found all around the festival sites.

Barbican Conservatory

The Barbican Centre is London's largest multi-arts venue. Movies, live gigs, plays, exhibitions, restaurants—you name it, the iconic complex has it all. One of the lesser known gems is their indoor garden on Level 3, which houses 2,000 species of plants and trees as well as three small ponds. It's a great place if you need a break from sightseeing or want to spend a relaxing hour or two hiding from the rain. Plus, it's quite romantic—a friend of mine got engaged amidst the plants! Unfortunately, the whole Barbican complex tends to feel like a labyrinth with tons of confusing walkways. Schedule in some extra time just in case you get lost, and don't sweat it, because it regularly happens to pretty much every Londoner.

Pro tip: The Conservatory is only open on select days. Entry is free, but book a time slot in advance to make sure you'll get in. Tickets are released one week in advance on Fridays at 10 a.m., with a limited number of additional ones available at 9:30 a.m. on the day.

Gods Own Junkyard

Gods Own Junkyard is a surreal exhibition place packed with blinking neon signs, old movie props, circus lighting and retro displays. It's the private collection of the late owner Chris Bracey, who made signs for Soho's strip clubs before he went on to work with some of Hollywood's greatest directors, including Tim Burton ( Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ), Christopher Nolan ( Batman ) and Stanley Kubrick ( Eyes Wide Shut ).

The gallery-turned-warehouse isn't exactly close to the city center, but it ranks high among the best things to do in London. Entry is free, however you might end up taking a neon sign home from their small shop. There's also a cafe and fully licensed bar, if you want to linger for a bit.

Pro tip: It might be tempting, but Gods Own Junkyard is, unfortunately, not the place to try out your latest camera gear. You are allowed to take pictures with your phone (for personal use and social media) but not with any cameras or professional equipment.

Cahoots Underground

If you like colorful cocktails and immersive experiences, make sure to check out some of London's hidden bars. One of the coolest places I've been is the 1940s-inspired Cahoots Underground , located in a retired tube station around the corner from Soho's Carnaby Street. The speakeasy bar is decorated with tube signs and maps, the cocktails (with names like "Winston Churchill" and "Judy Garland") are listed in a newspaper instead of a regular menu, and the waiters are dressed up as ticket inspectors. What's more, there's a live piano player taking requests from guests (everything from Frank Sinatra to Miley Cyrus). Be prepared for spontaneous singalongs and people dancing between the tables.

Other hidden bars worth checking out include Nightjar Shoreditch (old-school glamour, candlelit tables and live jazz and swing), Discount Suit Company (in a former suit tailor's storeroom), Opium in Chinatown (a 1920s Shanghai-themed bar tucked away behind red curtains), Purl (1920s theme, live music and cocktail mixing classes) and Ladies & Gents (in a former public washroom).

Pro tip: Better safe than sorry—all the above-mentioned bars are very popular, so book a table just in case.

Dennis Severs' House

If you've ever wondered what everyday London life looked like in the 18th century, Dennis Severs' House gives you a first-hand taste. The building was left exactly as when the original owners, a family of silk weavers, lived there. The rooms are lit by fire and candlelight, and visitors are encouraged to tour them in complete silence to "not disturb the family." You will find yourself wandering around the living room full of faded photographs, old carpets, mugs and books. The kitchen has a fully laid table—bitten apples included! It almost feels like the family is about to return and go on with their daily routine any moment. To make the time-travel experience even more authentic, there are also added scents of food, woodsmoke and chatters of the occupants.

Pro tip: Walk-up tickets are available, but unless you don't mind standing in line for up to an hour or two, I'd recommend booking a time slot.

Talk to any Londoner and they'll probably tell you that Camden is just not what it used to be. And I'm not going to lie, the North London neighborhood has dramatically changed in recent years. Its edgy, alternative vibe is pretty much gone. Many of the charming parts of Camden Market  were replaced by fancy stalls, food courts and colorful hanging umbrellas. However, Camden is still well worth a visit, you just need to do a bit more digging. Ignore the souvenir shops and look for the small creative sellers that have stood their ground. Then head to The Hawley Arms, my go-to Camden pub and a musician's hangout. The late, great Amy Winehouse was a regular.

Camden's music scene is legendary, and many pubs have live gigs and open-mic nights. Some of the most iconic venues to check out for gigs include KOKO (frequented by supermodels such as Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss in their heydays), Electric Ballroom, Spiritual Records, Dingwalls and Jazz Cafe.

Pro tip: The annual Camden Rocks Festival sees hundreds of gigs around Camden Town. Check out updates and ticket information here .

A pub for Sunday roast

Sunday roast is a British meal traditionally consisting of roasted meat of some sort (beef is the most common), mashed and roasted potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, carrots, seasonal greens, gravy and apple or mint sauce. It's a big, hearty meal typically enjoyed early or late Sunday afternoon. Classic drinks to go with the foodie feast include local beers and ciders.

Sunday roasts rank high among the top things to do in London, and luckily there are plenty of options all around the city. One of the most popular is Camberwell Arms , which features five options served for two people to share. Other good choices are the trendy Blacklock Shoreditch (located inside a former furniture factory) and Quality Chop House, which has fed hungry guests since 1869. If you're a vegan, like me, or just curious about a meat-free option, head to The Spread Eagle, London's first fully plant-based pub.

Pro tip: All the above pubs (and many others around the city) are packed on Sunday, so booking is essential.

Royal Albert Hall

Opened in 1871 by Queen Victoria (and dedicated to her husband Albert, hence the name), Royal Albert Hall is probably the world's most famous concert hall. Its annual highlight is The Proms , an eight-week series of classical music organized by the BBC. But even if you're not a fan of orchestra performances, the venue is worth a visit. It's stunning inside and out and has the best acoustics you can find in the city.

What's more, the program is a lot more varied than you might expect. They also feature regular pop and rock gigs, and Eric Clapton, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, David Bowie and the Beatles have played here. You can also catch circus performances, movie nights, yoga sessions with live music and the occasional sumo wrestling event. If you go to a live gig, be prepared for the band to leave the stage midconcert for a mandatory interval. When I saw Bryan Adams in 2022, he apologized for the break, then jokingly explained that even rock stars had to follow the Royal Albert Hall's strict house rules.

Pro tip: Many of the events at Royal Albert Hall are instant sell-outs, but it's always worth checking at the box office or their website for last-minute tickets on the day of the event. If you're interested in a peek behind the scenes, book a backstage tour.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum in posh South Kensington is one of the best things to do in London with kids. It houses more than 80 million animals, plants and rocks spanning 4.5 billion years that are displayed in about 20 galleries. The main eye-catcher upon arrival is a 25.2-metre-long blue whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling. The female animal died in Ireland more than 120 years ago and was given a name when moved to its new home: Hope. Other highlights include dinosaurs, a giant gorilla, a Moon rock sample from the 1972 Apollo 16 mission, meteorites and an earthquake simulator. The Natural History Museum is free to visit except for special exhibitions.

Pro tip: Watch out for museum events such as yoga and tai chi classes, silent disco nights or sleepovers for grown-ups.

Gordon's Wine Bar

Gordon's Wine Bar , conveniently located close to Covent Garden and the West End, is London's oldest wine bar. It opened its doors in 1890, and not much has changed since. The moment you step into this cave-like spot you'll be transported back in time, with most of the original decor still in place. Faded newspaper articles and photos hang on the walls, and there are wine-bottle candle holders and old-fashioned wooden chairs and tables. The low ceiling further adds to the atmosphere. As expected, the bar has an extensive choice of wines, which can be paired with cheese, meat, mezze and sharing boards.

Gordon's is not only a great place for drinks and food but also for people-watching. The bar is one of the most popular spots for people to first meet their dating-app match.

Pro tip: Gordon's Wine Bar is one of the few places in London that do not accept bookings. Arrive early, and be prepared to wait for a bit—it will be worth it.

Greenwich makes a fun day out of the city—without actually leaving the city. Located in the southeast of London, it's home to an artsy market with lots of food stalls, a beautiful park perfect for taking London skyline pictures, the National Maritime Museum and the Cutty Sark, one of the oldest and best known tea clipper ships in the world. There's also the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory, where you can stand with one foot in the western hemisphere and the other foot in the eastern. Greenwich can be reached by tube, bus and train, but the most fun way is to take a boat from central London. Hop on board at Westminster Pier and see famous landmarks such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral and Tower Bridge from the water.

Pro tip: While it's possible to buy tickets for the boats from the ticket booths and machines at the pier, the easiest way is to just use your bank or credit card and tap in and out like you would at the bus or tube.

Saatchi Gallery

London has about 200 museums, but Saatchi Gallery is the one place I keep coming back to again and again. A registered charity, the exhibition place is known for its fun and immersive displays of all kinds of subcultures and contemporary photo shows, and it's a supporter of up-and-coming artists from the U.K. and beyond. Highlights I've seen here include a show on the heydays of the British rave scene, exhibitions on Bob Marley and French street artist JR, as well as American photographers documenting social change since the 1960s. Recently, they also had a three-floor display of the U.K.'s graffiti scene.

Pro tip: The gallery regularly hosts artists talks, and they also have "Saatchi Lates," which feature extended exhibition hours, workshops and DJ sets.

Independent cinemas

While London's big-chain movie theaters around Leicester Square all come with XXL screens and the latest technology, the independent ones are where the real magic happens. Just around the corner from Leicester Square toward China Town is Prince Charles Cinema , where both the latest blockbusters and classic movies are shown. They also have movie marathons—from Harry Potter to Terminator and Lord of the Rings— where fans gather for up to 24 hours to watch the whole series. They even encourage singalongs during music-movie marathons by projecting lyrics on the screen for a karaoke vibe.

I am a regular at Genesis Cinema in East London, which has been showing movies since 1912 and comes with bar events such as open-mic and comedy nights on top. They also charge only 5£ Monday to Thursday, which is less than a third of what you'd pay on Leicester Square. Other great places include Electric Cinema, which has leather armchairs and double beds in the front row; Lexi Cinema, a volunteer-run place supporting charities in South Africa); and Everyman Screen on the Green, where wine and pizza are served to your seat.

Pro tip: London hosts tons of small and large film festivals throughout the year, so watch out for premieres, Q&As and other special events.

Highgate Cemetery

Walking around graves might not seem the most obvious choice for a fun day out in London, but Highgate Cemetery is worth making an exception. The Victorian cemetery looks a bit cramped and chaotic, but the sunken headstones, faded engravings and missing names on the tombs make it beautiful and charming at the same time. Highgate is the final resting place of no less than 170,000 people, including many celebrities. The one resident most visitors are looking for is German philosopher Karl Marx. His grave can be found in the east part of the cemetery and is easily recognizable by a giant sculpture of his head.

Pro tip: To enter the cemetery , you need a ticket, which you can buy online or on site. If you want some background info (and to hear morbid anecdotes), you can also book a guided tour.

Hackney City Farm

Big cities and farms might not go together well at first glance, but London does have several working farms close to its busiest districts. One of the loveliest is Hackney City Farm in East London, which has pigs, donkeys, ponies, sheep, ducks, a vegetable garden, a small shop that sells homemade produce and a restaurant. The farm opened in 1984 and regularly welcomes local school kids. They also run workshops in animal handling and arts classes including pottery and woodworking.

Pro tip: Visits are free, but donations are welcome. Don't leave without a drink in their cute backyard garden.

• Visit London : "London's Big Ben"
• Visit London : "Natural History Museum"
• The Royal Collection Trust : "Buckingham Palace"
• Historic Royal Palaces : "Crown Jewels"
• Shakespeare's Globe
• Natural History Museum : "Wild parakeets in the UK: exotic delights or a potential problem?"

The post The 34 Best Things to Do in London, According to a Local appeared first on Reader's Digest .

Ukraine-Russia war latest: Moscow ramping up pressure on Ukrainian forces; major missile attack kills eight in Dnipropetrovsk

Follow our Ukraine war live page for all the latest developments and analysis of the conflict. Listen to a Sky News Daily podcast episode on the notion of the UK putting troops on the ground in Ukraine as you scroll.

Friday 19 April 2024 14:10, UK

• Two detained after hammer attack on Navalny aide
• Moscow ramping up pressure on Ukrainian forces
• Major Russian missile attack kills eight
• Kremlin responds to US shift on aid to Ukraine
• Analysis: Russia is exploiting Ukraine's lack of air defences
• Mark Stone: Ukraine funding vote is a curious twist in America's political chaos
• The big picture: What's happening with the war this week?
• Your questions answered: How long will it take for any aid to turn the tide militarily?
• Live reporting by Samuel Osborne

The head of the European Union's executive branch has visited Finland's border with Russia to assess the security situation there.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Finland's decision to close its border crossings with Russia over a surge in migrants was a security matter for the whole 27-member bloc to consider.

"We all know how Putin and his allies instrumentalize migrants to test our defenses and to try to destabilise us," she said.

"Now Putin is focusing on Finland, and this is no doubt in response to your firm support of Ukraine and your accession to NATO."

Finland shares a 832-mile (1,430km) land border with Russia.

"This is not just about the security of Finland, but it is about the security of the European Union. We are in this together," Ms von der Leyen said after visiting the border in Lappeenranta with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo.

"We should be more Finnish when it comes to security."

Finland joined NATO in April 2023 in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in a major blow to President Putin.

Slovaks angered at their government's refusal to give military aid to Ukraine have raised nearly €2m (£1.7m) in a drive to help supply ammunition to Kyiv.

Although ammo supplies are a pressing need for Ukraine after two years of war, Slovakia has refused to join a plan led by the Czech government to buy hundreds of thousands of artillery rounds for Ukraine.

"When I heard about the Czech government's initiative, I was very pleased to hear that all ways are being sought to help Ukraine defend itself against the [Russian] aggressor, because there is no other way," said Otto Simko, a 99-year-old Holocaust survivor and journalist who helped spearhead the Slovak crowdfunding campaign.

In a video posted on the crowdfunders' YouTube page he said Russia needed to be expelled from Ukraine so "peace can be spoken of on terms that suit Ukrainian independence".

Slovakia halted state military aid to Kyiv last year, arguing the conflict did not have a military solution.

It is "imperative" Ukraine gets more resources immediately to help it fight off Russia's invasion, the US secretary of state has said after a meeting of the Group of Seven (G7) major democracies.

"It needs more air defences, it needs more munitions, it needs more artillery - allies and partners including the G7 countries are committed to delivering on that," Antony Blinken added.

Mr Blinken went on to say that if China wants better relations with Europe it cannot continue helping Russia while it attacks Ukraine, adding that Beijing was the primary contributor to Russia's defence industrial base.

He made the remarks after Kyiv's foreign minister said the G7 had identified "specific steps" needed to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia, Kyiv's foreign minister has said.

Dmytro Kuleba also warned Europe would be engulfed by war if Russia triumphed in its invasion.

"We identified specific steps which Western partners will make to help Ukraine," Mr Kuleba told reporters on the Italian island of Capri, where G7 foreign ministers are meeting.

He said the West had the capacity "to provide Ukraine with all necessary resources as soon as possible to save Europe from a larger war."

Meanwhile, Italian foreign minister Antonio Tajani said the G7 was looking to see if it could use frozen Russian assets held in the West and not just the interest from the funds.

Mr Tajani said there was an established legal basis for using the interest from the frozen funds, but experts were now looking to see if the capital itself could be used to help Ukraine.

The West has frozen some $300bn (£241bn) of sovereign Russian assets, which the UK and US want to be used to pay for the Ukraine war effort - though European Union member states have questioned the legality of such a move.

A Polish man has been arrested over allegations of being ready to help Russia's military intelligence in an alleged plot to assassinate Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Polish prosecutors said.

The man, identified only as Pawel K, was accused of being prepared to pass airport security information to Russian agents and was arrested in Poland on Wednesday, the office of Poland's National Prosecutor said in a statement.

The man was seeking contact with Russians directly involved in the war in Ukraine and was expected to pass on detailed information about the Rzeszow-Jasionka airport in south-eastern Poland, near the border with Ukraine, it said.

The airport is under the control of US troops and serves as a gateway for international military and humanitarian supplies for Ukraine.

If convicted, the man could face up to eight years in prison, the statement said.

It said the arrest was the result of close cooperation with the prosecutors and security services of Ukraine, who tipped them off and provided crucial evidence.

The Kremlin has declined to comment.

It comes after German prosecutors said two German-Russian men had been arrested on suspicion of espionage (see 8.44 post yesterday).

One of them is accused of agreeing to carry out attacks on potential targets including US military facilities in the hopes of sabotaging aid for Ukraine.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has visited troops near the frontline in the east of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian president joined a paratroopers' medical platoon in the Donetsk region.

"Today - Donetsk region. Visited our defenders who are under treatment," he said on Telegram.

Mr Zelenskyy said he talked with the soldiers and gave them awards, adding: "Thank you for your service and protection of Ukraine! Our country is proud to have such soldiers."

Two people have been detained in Poland on suspicion of a hammer attack on the top aide of the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Lithuania's president has announced.

Leonid Volkov suffered from hammer blows in the attack on 12 March outside his home in Vilnius, the Lithuanian capital.

Lithuanian counterintelligence has said the attack was the work of Russian special services and the Kremlin has declined to comment.

President Gitanas Nauseda said the suspects would be transferred to Lithuania.

Mr Volkov had blamed Vladimir Putin for the attack and he thanked Lithuanian police for working "energetically and persistently" over the past month on this case.

"I am very glad that this work has been effective", he tweeted. "Well, we'll find out the details soon. Can't wait to find out!"

Navalny, Mr Putin's most prominent critic, died in a Russian arctic prison in February - his followers believe he was killed by the authorities, which the Kremlin denies.

These pictures show the aftermath of a major Russian missile attack which killed at least eight people and injured over 25 more in the central Dnipropetrovsk region of Ukraine (see 8.08 post).

Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the attack damaged multiple storeys of a residential building and a train station in the regional capital Dnipro.

A Russian oil and gas company has equipped key facilities at its refineries with anti-drone nets, the RIA news agency has reported.

It comes after a series of Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries in Russia.

RIA cited the head of the Russian republic of Bashkortostan, Radiy Khabirov, saying the company, Bashneft, was in talks with Russia's defence ministry about boosting the security of its refineries.

Ukraine has said it shot down a Russian strategic bomber "for the first time".

The Russian defence ministry claimed the Tu-22M3 bomber had crashed in Russia's southern Stavropol region, hundreds of miles from Ukrainian-controlled territory, as it returned to base after carrying out a combat mission.

It said the crash appeared to have been caused by a technical malfunction.

But Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk said Kyiv had "destroyed" the bomber, which is capable of carrying long-range missiles.

"For the first time, anti-aircraft missile units of the Air Force, in cooperation with the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, destroyed a Tu-22M3 long-range strategic bomber, a carrier of Kh-22 cruise missiles used by Russian terrorists to attack peaceful Ukrainian cities," Commander Oleshchuk said.

The Russian regional governor said the bomber's four pilots had ejected but one had died and a rescue operation was ongoing for the fourth.

It comes after Russia conducted a major missile attack on the central Dnipropetrovsk region earlier today, which killed at least eight and injured 25.

Russian air defence units intercepted 25 airborne targets early this morning over the southern Belgorod region, the region's governor said.

Vyacheslav Gladkov said the main target was the city of Belgorod, but there were no injuries.

Several private homes and other buildings were damaged and a small fire in a storage area was quickly extinguished.

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